A Story of Faith in Action
As prison guards searched her belongings, fear and doubt threatened Ana Machado’s resolve. God had called her to share His Word. He had opened too many doors at the Miami, Fla. correctional facility for her to turn back. What would she find inside? How would the women respond?
“That first day, God provided the strength. He opened so many doors to get to those beautiful souls,” she shared.
When the guards finally allowed Ana and her two friends to enter, they saw hundreds of women standing in line for their evening meal. With nothing to offer but God’s Word, Ana asked each woman if she might be interested in joining a Bible study. Most declined, but one woman in her 20’s hesitated.
Looking over her shoulder, the young woman said, “I’ll come.”
As Ana and her friend Martha talked about Jesus and His love for sinners, the woman sat in tense silence. Encouraged by the group to share, Martha remembers her saying:
“My grandmother was a Christian woman. I just came out of being in solitary confinement for 30 days. I’m one of the most hardened ones in here. In that solitary confinement, I was given a little pamphlet about Matthew, and I was reading the gospel. And when you said you were beginning in Matthew, something pushed me that I needed to go with you ladies. I just need you to explain to me more about Jesus.”
Captivated by the woman’s story, Ana’s fears and doubts dissolved. The “hardened criminal” before her was simply a lost and lonely young woman. Ana, herself, had been lost once, longing for something to give her peace. She knew how it felt to hunger for Saving Grace. With a compassion born of the Holy Spirit, Ana and Martha shared the gospel.
“Will God really forgive me?” the woman asked. “Will He really forgive me for everything I’ve done, for all my crimes?”
Speaking from experience, Ana said “Yes.” In tears, the woman fell to her knees and accepted Jesus as her Savior.
At the end of the study, the woman shared:
“My life has been transformed because of this Bible study and because I have come to know Christ. That first night I was so fearful, now I talk to the others in here, the other inmates, about Jesus. And because I was who I was, I have learned that it’s given me a platform. And they listen.”
Today, Ana continues to share God’s Word with the women in the Homestead Correctional Facility. She is no longer afraid because they have become like family.
“God has showed me through the prison ministry that although they are incarcerated, although they are behind bars, with God they can all find true freedom. They are leading a free life in Christ, even behind bars. This fact alone is so humbling. We became their advocates. When you hear their stories, God softens your heart. You truly learn to listen,” Ana shared.
Through a simple act of obedience, Ana stepped through prison doors. From there, God opened hearts. Each of us has a BSF story to share, and each of us has one that God is writing. How will God use you to impact others for Christ? Where is He calling you to share?
I absolutely loved this. I can relate very much so with this story. I have a loved one that is incarcerated and I am going to hopefullly print this out and mail it to him.
Testimony
BSF has a special place in my heart.
I grew up in a Godly home, although we were part of a denomination most would consider outside mainstream Christianity. We attended church regularly, Sunday morning and evening and Wednesday evening. My dad was an elder and was a lay pastor for our tiny congregation. I was baptized when I was 8. I grew up learning about God and His Son, but I didn’t know God.
As a young adult I began attending church less and less often. I knew something was missing from my life but I didn’t know what. I was trying to fill the emptiness inside with career, advanced schooling, hobbies, friendships etc. In my late 20’s my husband’s career moved us to “the middle of nowhere” away from family, friends and a job I loved! I think God was trying to get my attention. The first day on my job the person training me was telling me how God had “rolled up his sleeves and reached down and pulled her up out of the gutter”. I thought to myself who talks like that? And it seems every person I worked with was a Christian and openly talked about God. I had never been around people like this. I developed a friendship with a fellow nurse and one day she was telling me about a book she was reading, “Created for Commitment” by A. Wetherell Johnson. She started telling me about a bible study that was going to be starting soon and wondered whether I would be interested. I knew in that instant that this is what I had been searching for. I felt like one of those cartoon characters where you see the lightbulb go on above their head. I was excited for this Bible study but it was several months before it started. It turns out this was going to be a pilot study for BSF and it was a short study of Philippians.
When we got to Philippians chapter 3 I saw that like Paul, I had been putting my confidence in the wrong things. I had been baptized, I had membership in a church, my father was an elder, and I tried to be a good person. I thought surely those things would get me into heaven. Yet when someone would talk about Jesus’ return, my stomach would knot in fear. Not long after this I prayed and accepted Christ. I felt like in one month of bible study I had learned more than I had in a lifetime of attending church. I remember in those early days of reading my Bible I often didn’t understand it, but as my teaching leader had advised, I would stop and pray for understanding. Often as I read it again, the understanding would come. I was amazed. God was answering my prayers! He also gave me a hunger for His word and He had me in a situation where I had the time to devote to it. BSF gave me a place to learn and grow where no one questioned my beliefs or denominational background. I continued in bible study and my life began to change. I became involved in a Bible based church. After seeing the change in me my husband also started attending BSF, as well as my preschool aged children.
Several years ago I returned to BSF and I am currently serving as a Group Leader. My daughter in law and 3 of my grandchildren are also attending BSF. I am happy to have a small part in what God is doing through BSF in the hearts and lives of people.
Studying Isaiah and the prophets this year comforted my heart. I had many questions I needed to ask God about why my life has taken the route it has as I live one day at a time wondering how I make it through the day with my husband who has become disabled mentally after having been very sick with the Covid-19 virus in December 2020.
I began in BSF in about 1986…declined an invite to BSF twice before the Lord gently showed me HIS plan….l had Genesis twice (fav study) to get John.
I had been a CL in the two’s class and now the 5’s…..never knowing God was preparing me for my own miracle….a son born after surgeries for both myself and my husband. Women in our small circle of about 25 were praying for my infertility.
I left as a graduate and 3 yrs later they added the life of Moses and when l brought my 3 yr old in and saw his Damon on a name tag l could hardly believe God had given me my hearts desire.
Too many stories but a fav of mine is that after college my son meet his wife at a young adults BSF( at that time only about 15 ) and proposed to her at the church parking lot.
God has allowed me to serve in the CD for about 30!yrs ….he had a different plan for my love for children than l had….and now as a group leader for the past 4 yrs…..
I have also been leading a summer BS at my place of employment for the past 10 yrs where l am a fitness instructor.
God has blessed there sending women of different faiths to come…….
BSF has given me a true beautiful picture of the Lord God Almighty and a desire at 72 to be keep pressing on to share HIS message…..Who will go …..send me Lord Jesus.
To whom it may concern:
Bible Study Fellowship helped me to put down my miracle stories on paper. I am so grateful for this. Otherwise, this amazing story would have been lost in my memories.
I hope all is well! The purpose in sending you this story is to encourage you and share with you yet again another story of God’s loving care and intervention in another person’s life, mine. God’s coming and meeting a deep need in my life was only a glimpse of how deep and wide His love, provision and power extends. May God be glorified as you read my story.
You are welcome to share this amazing story.
Blessings,
Norma
What lessons can you learn about God’s provision from this passage? This passage taught me that I should trust in God to provide for my financial needs. Moreover, God may want me to obey Him in a particular action that would demonstrate God’s care and miraculous power in order to pay off my debts.
(Share)***b. When has God stretched your faith by meeting a deep need in your life? God stretched my faith by meeting a deep need in my life concerning not going in debt. After reading scriptures regarding managing finances, I asked God for a home that would help us not go in debt. God answered that prayer and provided a home for us to buy which demonstrated His provision and power and love through a couple miracles.
The first miracle was revealed after a 2 year process following 2 liens associated with the home. At the end of this time period, our realtor told us that the second lien was lost in a pool of bad liens and that we would never find it. After hearing this, my prayer warrior and I turned to God totally depending on Him for a miracle asking if He wanted me to own this particular home. In our immaturity and simple trust in God, my prayer warrior friend prayed that by the following Thursday, God would help us find the second lien again. That following Thursday morning, a fax arrived on my realtor’s desk requesting a market analysis for the homes listed. My home’s lien was listed! By the time we signed the papers for the home, I asked my nonbeliever realtor what he thought about all of this. He said that he now knows that their is a God up there.
After living in our new home a year and updating it, my husband became unemployed. We followed God’s lead and took a job in another state where God provided a home for us where the cost of homes was increasing in value at that time. After 6 1/2 years, yet again, God provided another job which brought us back to the same town where our old home was located.
This is when our second miracle occurred. God woke me up from a deep sleep one morning around 4 or 5 a.m. and told me to go in my old sold home, and look at the time on the clock. This happened three times. Unfortunately, I never looked at the time. I did, though, begin to wonder: What is going on that I need to go into the house? Is the owner of the home okay? I sought God for wisdom and asked, “How am I going to go into the house?” In my mind came the following thought, whether it was my thought or God’s, I’m not sure: “Ask the home owner if my realtor could see her home, so the realtor would know what we were looking for in a home.” Nervously, I went to see the owner of the home ready to ditch the plan at any moment. Fortunately, I was greeted by the owner’s daughter on their sidewalk and was relieved that the people who bought the house were still the owners. The daughter insisted that I speak with her mother, and so the owner greeted me at the door. I asked my question, and she responded saying that that very morning at 4:00 a.m., she asked God to help her sell her home because her ex-husband kept coming back to the house. She invited me in and went to get a pencil and paper. I did not go into the house. It was at this time, I remembered that I was suppose to go into the house. So nervously, I opened the door and took one step into the house when I remembered a conversation I had with God 6 1/2 years ago. My conversation was a grumbling session. I complained to God that I would never be able to pay off a home unless we moved to a place where the cost of housing increased, and then came back to a place where the cost of homes stayed the same. This is exactly what happened! God answered my prayer. Now, I had a decision to make: Do I buy our old home back and pay it off in full, or do I follow “the Jones” and buy a bigger home and owe money? I chose to buy our old home back and pay it off in full.
The story of God’s provision through this home is almost finished. Eight years later, we moved to another state where God led us to rent our old home at a very low rate to a single man with two toddlers. I did grumble about the lease amount. However, 3 years later when we sold our old home, God gave back all our money we would have made if we rented our home at a reasonable price. In addition, the house sold for three times more than when we bought it. So we followed God’s leading and used the money towards His work and to help pay off our children’s college fund and pay off our home in Colorado. God’s provision and care was so evident in our lives through those years, and all because we sought God first through His scriptures and took a step of faith to trust and obey God and do things His way.
P.S. Other miracles not mentioned:
Following the 2 liens for two years from place to place was a series of miracles.
While in Tulsa for 6 1/2 years, the company my husband was working for never before gave bonuses. However, that year they gave us a bonus which would help pay off the difference for the house we were going to buy in Midland, Texas, location of our first, “old” home.
When we bought our old home, the home owners sold the house to us at the same rate as we sold it to them. Fortunately we previously sold it to them at a low cost. My husband said that the cost of living did go up a little during that time period, but it didn’t effect us.
Two years before we moved back to our old neighborhood, we almost moved back. The house almost sold then, but the sellers couldn’t sell the house because the roof needed to be replaced due to a layer of the old wood shingles under the old composite roof. Maybe it was around $15,000-$30,000 to have the roof replaced? I don’t remember the cost. About a week before we bought the house, a hail storm occurred in our old home’s neighborhood. Insurance paid to have the home’s roof replaced. In this way, God provided a way for us to use our money to pay the house off in full.
The court system was set up in a way where we could buy the 2 liens in bankruptcy, and then foreclose on ourself, owing ourselves nothing since we owned the 2 liens by then.
Norma- thank you for sharing! This is SO encouraging!
And should I not have concern for the great city of Nineveh, in which there are more than a hundred and twenty thousand people who cannot tell their right hand from their left—and also many animals?” (Jonah 4:11)
The Lost Dog
Jonah’s book ends with God’s declaration of His care for the lost people of Nineveh, and also the many animals there. I have been meditating on this verse since my dog Cherry was lost, but she was found.
We travelled to Switzerland this Christmas, and put Cherry in the care of a church friend. With Cherry in the care of an experienced dog host, I left for the long-awaited vacation with a peaceful mind. It was not until near the end of our trip, in the early hour of the New Year’s Eve, I was awaken with a phone call from Hong Kong, my friend kept apologizing sobbingly, “I’m sorry; I’m really sorry!” immediately, I was overwhelmed with a foreboding apprehension that Cherry might be dead. My friend eventually calmed down and recounted the whole episode of how Cherry had got lost; and the efforts she had put in to track her down, though still futile. As I listened, while worrying about Cherry, I also felt sorry that my friend had to go through all these ordeals because of my dog. To put it simply, early that morning, her helper opened the door to do cleaning and failed to keep an eye on Cherry, she escaped. It was only after few hours later when the family woke up that they realized Cherry was lost. She reassured me that a street cleaner saw Cherry being picked up by a driver of a white car. But still, a plethora of possible scenarios filled by mind: would this person keep Cherry as she is a lovely mini-dachshund? Was Cherry captured by an illegal dog trader? Would I be able to see Cherry again? My spirit would not be settled.
Hours later, I spotted a message from my Instagram, an unknown online friend showed me a picture of Cherry sitting on someone’s front seat, and asked me if I had lost my dog. This person even knows her name is Cherry. Let me supply some backgrounds here: I constantly posted Cherry’s photos on IG, but I was surprised that an unknown follower of mine could recognize her and even remember her name! I couldn’t help marveling at the power of the mass media. Getting connected with the driver of the white car was another long story, and he refused to let my friend Amy (blamed for being irresponsible) or any of my relatives claim Cherry back, insisting that he would only return Cherry to me. Another portentous trepidation surged: would this guy blackmail me, demanding an exorbitant amount for Cherry? Yet My husband and I resolved to pay the ransom.
I returned to Hong Kong on 1 January 2023. The moment we were cleared from the airport, we rushed to fetch Cherry. I had also invited my friend and her children to go along. It turned out that this man who had saved Cherry is an extremely kind-hearted person. He saw Cherry running dangerously on a busy road and almost got killed by the moving traffic, stopped his car and picked her up. He came with his wife and two young daughters, and thanked us for the joy Cherry had brought them. I offered to pay for the expenses they spent on Cherry, they kindly but persistently declined.
Cherry rushing aimlessly in the middle of busy traffic
It has been almost 3 weeks since Cherry’s episode. I have been relating the incident every time when I met my friends, and even to the Sunday school children, and everyone gapped at the impossible reunion. Only God could work this miracle. Jonah 4:11 keeps reverberating in my mind: And should I not have concern for the great city of Nineveh, in which there are more than a hundred and twenty thousand people who cannot tell their right hand from their left—and also many animals?” Cherry was lost but she was found because our Lord is a compassionate God. For the first time, I could truly share the joy when the owner found his lost sheep, the woman found her lost coin, and the father seeing his lost son return. The Lord also restores my friend and her children, taking away their burden of having lost someone’s dog.
Like the lost dog we all wander from our Father’s love, but God is gracious and compassionate, He repeatedly assures me that He loves me, and also the many animals that He has created.
I couldn’t read the Bible. I tried many different Bibles over a long long period of time. I just didn’t understand what I was reading. Taking Bible studies helped but nothing helped me as much as BSF. I just needed to learn how to read the Bible. The depth that BSF goes into and the different ways each lesson is presented has made a remarkable difference to me. I cannot believe how much easier it is for me to read and understand the Word.
Beginning in October, 2022. my Granddaughter was diagnosed with a sinus infection, then an inner ear infection. She was admitted to the Childrens’ Hospital and we acknowledged that God had gone before us, sent an ENT Pediatric Specialist who is now her Doctor. After surgery, she was put on medication and had tubes placed in both ears. She had an issue with a bone pressing on a nerve behind one of her ears which was causing an issue with one side of her face. She was cleared of Bel Palsy; to make a long story short, the sinus infection cleared up, but there was ongoing problems with her ears. She was referred to a local Specialist and even flew to Boston for a consultation with the leading Specialist here. The Family was in CONSTANT PRAYER with God for His Power, Presence and Protection during this difficult time. After getting new tubes placed in her ears two weeks ago, the follow up visit cleared her for resuming her day to day activities-doing cart wheels, etc. She never lost her JOY as the Family continued to Praise God for HIS FAITHFULNESS to us. As we continue to TRUST Him to never leave us, we cling to Him as He holds us in the palms of His unchanging hands. PRAISING & REJOICING!!!
I foumd that BSF Buble study has become a life line for me. The Ladies have shown me kindness and that I am not alone, even when I am alone. The study group has proven to be helpful way to get closer to the Lord. My Leader has a great outlook and has everyone in mind. I have to become a believer in alot of things. Thank You for being there for
me.
I had taken an early retirement in December 2011 and my cousin told me about BSF. Since I had time during the day, I decided to join in January 2012. I was curious about the Bible because my denomination did not encourage reading the Bible on your own. To me, the Bible was a book of mystery. I remember hearing for the first time that if I had been the only sinner in the world, Jesus would still have died for me. My participation in BSF the last 10 years has led me to a personal relationship with Jesus and His Father. I was baptized by immersion in 2019 at the age of 72, so it’s never too late to discover the love of Jesus. He was patiently waiting for me to acknowledge Him as my Lord and Savior and was ready to scoop me up into His loving arms.
Way back forever ago, when I returned home from the mission field, my sister told me about BSF, because her Christian friend had shared with her and she knew I was a Jesus freak too… little did she know I would serve with BSF for years and years and years, in multiple states and countries! BSF has been my family as my husband and I have moved again and again over our 30 years of marriage. God has proven He is intimate, personal, faithful, trustworthy, and powerful in the studies I have repeated again and again throughout my years in BSF. What a blessing to have such intimate relationships with ladies all over the world because of serving our awesome God together in BSF!!
Athy – such a beautiful testimony. Thank you for sharing!
Around five years into studying God’s Word with BSF, one of the lesson questions made me think about what would happen in my life if everything I believed turned out to not be real. It honestly stunned me to recognize that God’s Word had become so central to my thinking, that I would positively have no idea who I was or how to live if God’s Word was not true. That was the work of God in my life through BSF.
My journey began in 1992 when my children were toddlers. Quickly, the study and the fellowship with my discussion group members became a great source of joy and encouragement as we listened together to what God was teaching us from our study. After several years, for a variety of reasons, I had to take a time away from BSF. I felt the loss keenly, but I just could not get to a physical in-person class. So when I heard that BSF now had some classes with online satellite groups, I searched for one that fit my schedule. Some people hve complained during Covid that online groups felt cold and distant. I have not found that to be tru and refreshing. I have now attended BSFonline for 5 years. There are a core of women who have been together from the beginning, but others have joined us along the way as our group has grown. Currently our discussion group, which is predominantly from the USA, has been blessed and enriched with four women from Kenya, Uganda, and India. Being online, most of us have never met in person, yet our our time together each week is warm , loving, gracious, and sweet. We have often tried to envison meeting one another in person. Then God made it happen! He gifted some of us who live in the same region with a chance to meet our sister from Uganda face to face! The time together was one of such sweet fellowship. We could hardly contain ourselves as joy welled up and overflowed in abundance. In our minds the meeting was not only improbable, but beyond our wildest imagninations. As we shared our lives, what God was teaching us, and how we were being led in His service, the Spirit wrapped us up in deep love for Him and one another. We learned that as sisters in faith across the globe, we are far more alike than different. Our worries in life, work, and family are the same. Our cultures may be vastly different, but walking the Word of God is not constrained by those differences.
With all of the world’s division, nationalism, discord and even war, BSFonline has made it possible to break down cultural and physical barriers, build unity in the Body of Christ around the world, and advance God’s Kingdom purpose as we love and encourage one another. What a beautiful, surprise gift!
And what a beautiful testimony!
Due to Injuries and subsequent loss of vision and a totalled auto, I found a way to STILL participate in my beloved BSF, by finding an on- line class. We studied together, in the same group, for three years. The warmth and caring for each other was a saving grace, all through CoVID.
Now, one of the women in that group drives me to my BSF classes. She and her 3 kids and wonderful Godly husband have become my surrogate family. God gave me the grandchildren I’m unable to have.
I LOVE BSF!!.
My BSF story began in 1968 when I was 25 years old. A friend invited me to attend so I went. I was a church goer but had never studied the Bible. One day when I was studying at my dining room table I read Colossians 3:18 which said “Wives fit into your husband’s plans, for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus.” That verse opened my eyes to my sin & at that moment I realized I was on my way to hell apart from Christ; So I knelt by my bed, poured my heart out to God confessing my sin & asked the Lord to come in & take over my life because I had made a mess of it. He did & I became a new creation. The next year I was asked to be a discussion leader. In leader’s meeting I learned to pray. My husband saw an immediate change in me so when we were to move 3 years later he asked me if I could make it without BSF? I said yes because it was the Lord I worship & He will go with us. For 8 years I went to other Bible Studies but nothing fed me like BSF. It was then that the Lord led me to begin a BSF class in the High Desert of Southern Calif…. With much encouragement the Lord called me to be the Teaching Leader of that class for 15 years . In 1997 the Lord led me out & passed the class to a very dear friend & sister in the Lord. Through the training in BSF I have been able to teach senior ladies Sunday School Class, go on several short term mission trips & lead other ladies to a deeper relationship with Christ, & being a group leader in BSF for nearly 40 years. Oh how I love Jesus & this wonderful way He has led me through BSF to know Him better as I study His Word every day. I am knocking at the door of 80 now & it seems like He is leading me out of leadership but I will continue to study His Word through BSF as long as I am able & encourage others to study also. Thank the Lord for all that He is doing around the world through the study of God’s Word in Bible Study Fellowship.
I’m really impressed by your personal story, really appreciate your encouraging sharings. 😁
BSF has enabled me to overcome the lie that a woman who has divorce, past sin, regret, loss, and failed dreams is not worthy to serve God. BSF has enabled me to face the truth that I am a sinner, but because of Jesus and my belief in Jesus and my wholehearted repentance and remorse for my sins that I am more than capable of serving others. BSF is a gift from God. It is a gift that keeps giving, and it is to be shared with all. BSF is for everyone.
I have really enjoyed being a part of BSF. It is the best Bible study!
It gives me motivation to study different references and study Bible to answer questions, and share it with others who has missed a point. We have good participation in our group and we enjoy the discussion
I grew up in church. I think I’ve always believed that the Bible is true and God is real and that Jesus died on the cross for the sins of the world. I knew much about the Bible, about God, and His Word. I was moral. I considered myself a Christian.
At a Christian college, I met my future husband. He had never heard the name of Jesus until in High School, someone invited him to a high school church musical where he was genuinely changed. He believed I was a Christian and we were married & joined a Bible Believing church. After 10 years of teaching school and 3 children during that time, he suggested I stay home with them for a year. That year became 15 years. While they were preschoolers, I heard of a Bible Study meeting in our church. But I thought you had to be invited. I had kept a friend’s child while she attended fellowship. I asked her all about it, but she never invited me.
God’s timing is clear and perfect. One weekend 3 friends from my church invited me to a Welcome class. I went, but it took a while to get my little ones into the Children’s program. I thought they didn’t like me. But God used it to keep my interest in BSF. Finally in His time, I got the call.
As I went, I loved the people, the fellowship and God began to work in me. After 2 years, my life was changing. However, Satan worked on me too. I became prideful about all I was learning. And I fell into sin. I tried to stop, but it was impossible. I couldn’t get up. But God held me and convicted me each week at BSF. As my 3rd year began, He had me in the study of John. I remember reading, “ So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” John 8:36. I prayed, “God, how can that be? I don’t feel free! All I see are rules & rules and I can’t obey any of them! Where is the power you’ve promised?”
By Spring break, I was a mess. God had shown me I was a sinner. I hated the sin. That week, we would not have BSF, but we would be studying John 17 the next week. It was the first year for my teaching leader after a long time teaching leader had led our class. She told us to spend every day those 2 weeks reading John 17 and showed us how to personalize it by putting our name in there as if Jesus was talking to God personally about me. I did that. And at some point was overwhelmed by God’s personal love for me. I became His child and convinced that He was my Lord & Savior. I changed. Everything changed. I mailed the TL a letter to encourage her about how God was using her so powerfully. Several weeks later, I was contacted about leadership. I had prayed that I would never be contacted unless it was His call. I said yes and was a Group Leader for 10 years. God powerfully grew me and then I had to leave to return to work so our children could attend college. After 3 jobs and God’s beautiful hand leading, I looked for A BSF class & found an evening class close to my job. I went in incognito and loved my group, but was called to be a CL. I served 16+ years there, and marveled at how dependent I had to be in that role. 3 months ago my company closed and I retired. Now I’ve come full circle and am a day class member, still learning of His mercy!
That’s my story.
(Feel free to edit & shorten.)
When I first joined BSF, I didn’t know how to trust any one including God. I have changed in the past 20 years – so much so that looking at my past, it seems like I’m seeing someone else. Glory to God for his mercy, forgiveness and love of His children. I lived in “Saint Mary’s Children’s Home” from 8 months until I was 5. My parents had been ordered to undergo psychiatric care. When we were reunited, I met 3 other siblings who also lived in the Home, but in other buildings.
Although there were moments of closeness, I never bonded with my parents. Being a parent meant Strict Discipline. Maybe they didn’t want me to repeat their mistakes. No matter the reason, I never felt loved (by my standard) or trusted. That is, not until the Holy Spirit picked me up and set me down to study His word. I am Grateful to BSF and my sisters who have prayed, supporting me and one another. I’m not a great student but as time passes, I know I am growing. I finally forgave, found trust, and understand love. It’s a blessing to love others because God then blesses me with His love. I can trust others now, because I trust God explicitly.
Marquita – thank you for sharing! Only God can give us that strength to forgive. Your story is a beautiful encouragement to all who are struggling with past wounds. A wonderful testimony!
BSF though on– line expounding of God’s word helped me draw closer to God much more than ever before!
I grew up in a spiritually abusive high control group that also happened to be my family. Broken and deeply isolated, I found the strength to leave at the age of 20. Although cut off and abandoned, the abuse did not stop there. For most of my adult life, my desperate need for love and approval kept me grasping for their acceptance and longing for reconciliation. To say the Bible was used as a weapon against me would be an understatement. My mother passed away four years ago. Eye opening events that took place thereafter led me to challenge that which kept me spinning in circles. I had believed God was the central player in my lifelong punishment and ultimate rejection. Someone told me about BSF earlier this year and without giving it much thought, I signed up. I knew it was going to be a challenge for me when I realized we would be studying the Old Testament, the primary source of my fear and confusion. With the support of my wonderful, patient husband and gracious women from my BSF group, my understanding of God is shifting. I have been so afraid to look for myself, but the veil has finally lifted and I’m blinded with God’s love and grace that’s splattered throughout the pages of the Old Testament. I lost a lot of time and I don’t know what my future holds, but this I’ll say. As I wipe the tears from my eyes, I will stand to my feet. Then I will run. I may not accomplish anything of great importance, but I’m still going to run. This is the race set before me. To know the real God. And this time, no one and nothing is going to stop me.
Sheri, Reading your story brought tears to my eyes. It was like you were talking about MY life. Once my parents passed away, (I was over 50 years old) I was able to forgive and stop blaming. I agree with you about BSF: it has allowed me to grow spiritually. Looking back at the past 20 years, I see how God guided me through the ‘baby steps’ and matured me to being able to run. (not physically). Keeping a Gratitude Journal helped me to overcome the hurts of childhood and I constantly am thankful for BSF and my sisters in Christ who are traveling this road with me, giving such love and support that I never knew before. The Holy Spirit has given each of us a ministry: Matthew 5:14-16 “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” Thank you for sharing your story. It confirmed God’s work in my life.
What a beautiful and touching story. Thank you Ana for being strong in the Lord and revealing to us that it’s all about HIM! We just need to step forward in obedient to see His Greatness and how He can use us in unimaginable ways. Thank you both, Martha and Ana for being such faithful and willing followers in the Call .
I started my first BSF when my children were babies. I was Christian with a strong testimony about life. Over the years BSF and the Holy Spirit have worked together to strengthen and deepen my faith. What a great joy it is to live in and love Jesus as He guides me step by step every day.
Because BSF keeps us in the word, change is inevitable. It’s now 6 years since a dear friend introduced me to Bible study. The fruit is that am renewed to approach life not to myself only but helping others as well to be likewise. first of all with a God- centered approach but also not in isolation. All through scripture,it was God involved with ordinary people like me.
BSF has given me an opportunity, with other men in Liverpool, UK to explore and gain increasingly intimate Biblical knowledge, and learning how it all fits together. I have been a born-again Believer since age 10 (Iam now 77), and have been painfully aware of the persistent Biblical illiteracy in our churches, which does not bode well for us in the days and years to come. We need, now more than ever to be able and equipped to give an account of our faith and ownership with Christ before those who would oppose us, and strong Biblical knowledge is the only sure way of equipping us for this. BSF makes a great contribution here.
Michael – thank you for sharing!
When I first entered BSF I had accepted Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior but I knew very little beyond that. Thanks to a loving and caring wife who had just recently started in BSF, I was encouraged to join.
My first study was Romans and that was the match that lit the fire for bible study. I looked forward to Monday nights and my small group. As God’s word was revealed to me through study and discussion it made me want more. After three years I was asked to consider being a Children’s Leader. I prayed and questioned God because I didn’t think I was ready for such an undertaking.
But the bible shows how God uses ordinary people, just like me, to accomplish His will and to glorify Him. For the next fourteen years I was both a Children’s Leader and a Children’s Supervisor for a new start up class. Throughout this time God continued to provide me with strength and wisdom to lead these precious children to Him and to demonstrate how studying God’s word can be fun and make a true difference in your life.
Miss Johnson’s mantra of “Seven Years of Study for a Lifetime of Service” was certainly true in my life. I have been leading a Sunday School for over six years at my church (yes, Children’s Leaders can teach adults 😊) while also serving as a Deacon. This would not have been possible without almost twenty years of BSF training. BSF prepared me to serve the church and I am forever grateful and humbled.
On Tuesday my son 12 asked me to buy juice. I was down to my last dollar but I still gave him. After buying the juice he was given a $20 dollar in change. Upon seeing it he asked the cashier If all was well as he was just given $20usd as change. He gave it back and upon reaching the car he told me what had just happened. His words were mum with all the bsf lessons mum and what I see you doing I couldn’t walk away with that money though I know we need it. I nearly cried as I listened but at the same time I gave glory to God as I remembered my prayer that God would raise a remnant in my children’s generation and i felt that was God’s way of telling me nomatter how the world will continue to fail he still has those that will stand for his glory
God is using BSF to change my whole family’s life. I grew up as a Pastor’s kid, but my whole family has struggled with finding a good church home since my Dad retired from pastoral ministry. We have been discouraged with the lack of Biblical teaching and study in most churches. My mom started doing BSF 4 years ago when a friend invited her, and today my mom leads a BSF group that I attend with my grandmother and sister in law. I am praying for a children’s program to be started in our city so my daughter study God’s word with other children! I cannot overstate the encouragement that BSF has been to me, my mom, grandmother, sister in law, and each of our families. We all attend different churches, and knowing that no matter what is taught (or not taught) in church on Sunday we can go to BSF and be spiritually fed makes all the difference. My husband loves hearing about what I am learning in BSF, and we are praying for a men’s program to be started in our town as well. Thank you to the dedicated leadership of BSF. I love that the focus of BSF is on the Bible, and not on any outside ideas that seem “popular” or “relevant.” The Bible is the only thing that really helps when life is hard, and it is what we need. BSF has helped me learn how to read the Bible better all the time, not just when I am doing my weekly homework. Thank you!
How big or small are we on this planet which begs the question?
How many Earth’s can you fit inside our sun? The answer can be a spiritual answer or a discussion! Because You get various answers from 2, 100, 500, 1,000 100,000, and up but rarely the right answer which is 1.3 million. This can be a shock to many and begs the question how did God do this? It will make many people think about how small we really are… like a grain of sand And now you begin to look at your relationship to Jesus. I have had great success with this question.
This is outside of my comfort zone which is usually where I am called to go! Last year God led me to a project of sharing His Word through advent ornaments. This year I was praying about how He wanted me to share about them. What I heard was to share them with my circle…I thought of my friends and family. Then I saw the “Your Story Matters” BSF email…ok, I hear you, Lord! I used to be a School Counselor and have since been called to let my license go and to share and teach His Word, both inside BSF and with my occupational training. It’s like when Nehemiah said, “I was cupbearer to the king.” (Nehemiah 1:11). God calls and changes our roles! We are strategically placed and when He calls, we get to go. In BSF, I am a Children’s Supervisor in a new Student Program class and outside of BSF, I have been called to empower people with Truth. BSF has been the tool He has used to change my whole life around. I love the Word and I know that is because, by His great design and provision, I have been taught and shepherded by women of faith who have gone before me and had the heart of God to share and sacrifice so that I could know and have the heart of God too. To God be all the glory! 🙂
I use to be a BSF children’s leader, many years ago. Because of a lot of medical issues I stopped. I loved every minute of it though. It helped me work with the little ones in my church, limited mobility issues and all, then my husband passed away and my daughter helped me to realize that I didn’t need to be alone, so a year later she purchased a house in the area of my other children, & took me there to live. I was like a fish out of the water,! I felt so alone, then one day as I was having a big party ( pity party) the Lord directed me to my computer to see about an online BSF class, after a while I obeyed. The administrators were were unbelievable kind to me, inviting me to an in-person satellite class whenever I could make. I discovered a church member who lives in my vicinity went to BSF too, I went and everyone was so kind & considerate of my limited mobility & made me feel like they had been waiting for me to come. I can only thank God for sending me back and for revealing to me that I could still be used in His service. I have learned so much about Him that I need to pass on. Studying about the prophets and learning the “why” of their msg. made me more aware of why it became so important for me to share.
Praise God for your ministry. My heart shouts for joy when someone is able to come to Jesus from a dark place. May the light of Jesus continue to shine there through this ministry.
I was hesitant to comment. Not for any other reason than I didn’t know that with all the other great contributions if mine would be of value. However, I was struck by the Spirit to summarize my story and include a time when He was clearly working in our BSF group, and He offered me a chance to do His work.
And as the Spirit reminds me, be fully transparent. It’s the only way to tell my story because it really isn’t my story, but being transparent is the best way to bring light to His work which I like to remember as my personal miracle.
After 20+ years of an active alcoholic, I finally went to recovery and gained some sobriety. That alone would be an awesome story and reflect His working in my life in creating a personal miracle in my life 😊
But, it goes on a bit…barely 2 months sober, I went through my first ever BSF study in ’19-’20. After that, I wasn’t sure I’d continue, but I was asked in Aug ’20 to be a Children’s Leader in the Fort Wayne program. I’m quite ignorant in regard to Scripture and was at best a Doubting Thomas when I was an active alcoholic…how could I be any kind of ‘instructor’? But I prayed and asked guidance on Sunday morning before church. That sermon was all about how Micah trusted the Lord and put himself in challenging situations but in ones where he trusted the Lord to guide him. I took that as an answer and accepted the opportunity to be a part of the Children’s program.
Last year, ’21-’22, was my second as a Children’s Leader. And it was the Saturday after Thanksgiving. I had been in a rough patch; I was still sober but feeling sorry for myself. So after our BSF Leaders’ meeting that Saturday morning, I got in my car and prayed thanking Him for the gifts of grace, mercy, and sobriety and asked Him that if I could be of service to Him that day that He let me know (and be pretty clear because I’m slow on the uptake lol).
Less than half a mile of driving after finishing my prayer, I received a call from a fellow BSF instructor asking me to call a person in his adult men’s group who had relapsed with alcohol and was in a bad place. Even I couldn’t miss that sign as a clear one from Him on how I could be of service to Him!
I called the alcoholic who’d relapsed and over the course of a month, he was able to get some sobriety and get back to working a daily recovery plan.
I am taking the year off as a Children’s Leader to attend to some personal affairs, but I stay in touch with my fellow instructors and look forward to continuing my service to Him next year as a Children’s Leader and in any way I can as He presents the opportunities to me!
I have been going to BSF for a little over 10 years. BSF helps me not only remember to study on a daily basis, but guides me through study. I have also met and stay in contact with small group members, making forever friends in Christ. Going to BSF is very important to me and it’s part of what I do on Monday’s. I really notice and feel it when I miss a week.
I have been attending BSF with my mom and sisters since I was 18 years old off and on waiting for new opportunity’s to rejoin. And go through it again in my 30 s and 40 s it’s always been a go to for me a constant in my life even if I changed church’s I stayed with BSF.. Gods story in me is to grow me into a willing woman of great character and faith believing on Him in the midst of troubles and tragedies. Knowing I am loved and cared for so is my family always we have stayed constant in love of the Father bringing my father and brothers together to join.. a family joining in and hearing Gods word. We shared with each other our past and present learning and love God . But I remain strong in Christ in my nursing career meeting others who went to BSF and grew closer as I did.
Rebecca – thank you for sharing!
I did bible study at Lieber Correctional Institution in South Carolina. When you sit down with men that have nothing to give except themselves you have a true worship of God. Turning hearts and minds to the ways of Jesus Christ moves your spirit to places that you can only get to by sharing HIM.
Ray – thank you for sharing!
I wasn’t raised with any spiritual input, in fact, my parents were atheists and none of my relatives were churched. When I was in the 3rd grade a classmate who lived in my neighborhood invited me to a club at her house. As it turned out it was a Good News Bible Club. I was only allowed to go 3 or 4 times before my father put a stop to me “hearing all that nonsense.” But I had heard about a God that loved me no matter what and there was some “nonsense” about His son who died for me. That was confusing but I liked the part about unconditional love from a God who created the whole world. (Unconditional love was not something felt within my family.) To counteract the “nonsense” that other people believed my dad decided to read us Bible stories and then explain why simple, uneducated people needed these stories to help explain things in the world and to think for them. But, as we know, God’s word does not return empty, but will accomplish the purpose for which it was sent it (Is 55:11). I believed these stories as being true. For many years after I would hear or observe things that church going people did that didn’t fit with what I already knew. I knew if I ever found the God I heard about in the stories and at my friend’s house everything would make sense. When I was 28, I got married in October and moved to a city without any friends. A neighbor invited me to go to BSF and I signed up in May. In early September I had a month-old baby and found a sitter so I could attend class. I went mainly to meet other women. I finally understood why my sins kept me from God and why I needed a savior. So many things change quickly. I convinced my husband to go to church because it would be good for our child. I knew very little about prayer but ask for prayers that my husband would return to the faith he had as a young man. By the next September he had sold his business and we moved to Dallas so he could attend seminary. We’ve never looked back. We’ve had to rely on God, and He’s always been faithful. I needed to know the academics of Christianity. BSF gave me that, but mostly it led me to have a true heart for God.
Mary – this is such a powerful testimony! So grateful for the way God pursues His people. Thank you so much for sharing
Today I am recalling my experiece and how God brought me to BSF. I say this because, I had just moved to Beaumont Tx. I was very scared to this new journey was bringing me into, you see I had been seeking God and honestly God knew that in his perfect timing He would bring himself into my life. My husband and I came knowing we needed to find everything, apartment, furnishing everything. I prayed and asked God to provide for our needs. Well He is so merciful and I knew I didnt want new furnishing becasue of cost and low and behold, right next to the aparment we found an Estate sale and I found everything that I needed, now while I was there I stated about us moving her and also seeking a church. There was definitely God fearing people there and offered me to attend at there church. I went and I received a welcome that took all me fears of my thought (in my mind) why God what are you doing with me, you see I had been seeking God as a mentioned and I had recently been baptised, so I was actually I was saying out loud on this .. why God! what are you doing! dont you see I am new I need you, I prayed and prayed and I found a place where I could find food God’s food. I recall so clearly on a sunday in Dec 15, 2013 while attending service and while I was singing away in worship a lady turned around me and boldly said .. I don’t know why but would you like to go to bible study with me on Wednesday, crazy right someone just a woman asked me. I recall saying Yes and we made arrangement to meet up and we did.. it was the Wednesday before Christmas break .. for me well it was okay with me I was just so excited. I was told when the studies would start again on Jan. Here is where I knew it was God guiding me answaring my prayers, showing me just how Merciful he was to me. You see when Jan came back, I went to the church on that next Wednesday after break, The lady that invited me waa there and I recall her seeing me there, she looked shocked seeing me there, she apologized to not reach out to me about it starting back. I recall telling her NO WORRIES all is good, You did your part the rest of this was for me. I thanked her and let me say the lady is now, I can say is a dear friend of mine. God not only feed my sould but also gave me a friend, a sister in christ and I LOVE HER DEARLY. On Nov 23rd 2022 I sent her a Thank you text expressing my gratitude and LOVE friendship for her. This is how God brought me to BSF and since then I have had the honor to continue not only, where, I started but through other cities since, I travel with my husband, BSF is everywhere. I introduce my self as a BSF gypy. I get to meet so many amazing God fearing woman in the state of TX. My home home BSF is actually San Antonio. God is Almighty!, he is never too late, always when, perfect time. He answers is my everything, even in times of trail and tribulations, and my joyful time. I never knew but God does. I had a stroke in Feb 2019, my greatest fear at that time was thinking, I wouldnt be able to read and speak, how could I continue with my studies, well, let me say every day I deal with my aphasia and sometime it can be very overwhelming but I think , this is just God working in me, a GIFT so to me this is new ME and I am okay. So anyone reading this know God gots us, so share your BSF cause we all have a story of how we received this amazing gift. Well thank you for taking a minute or 2 hearing my story. btw excuse any typo errors we will brame them on my brain hiccups
Dee – what a wonderful story! So encouraging. God can do amazing work through a single act of obedience – a quick invitation to BSF. Thank you for sharing!
Thank you for sharing this powerful story!
As a convert to Christianity, BSF methods and practices gave me the opportunity to study God’ word away from any denominational biases. Just me and the Word.
Completed 14 years (7 in leadership) of BSF in English. Last year I rejoined after I found that it is being offered in my native language.
In a library a woman handed me a BSF card. A second later I went to find her and she was gone (angel). I had just gone through the sudden death of my 23 year oldest son. I attended BSF looking for peace and healing from the deep, heavy darkness, anger and grief. My first Leader was Meg. I have always been a believer but did not know the Word. I fell in love with the Bible. God sent both the library lady and BSF Meg to me to alter my path. My husband developed cancer and I had mentioned to Meg that he was a Marine. Meg (working at the VA) kept after me for two years occasionally asking if I had checked my husband’s cancer with the VA. Turnes out, he was stationed at Camp Lejeune 45 years ago and was covered for the cancer he developed. Meg was the conduit to God’s plan. Today my husband is in remission, and I’m forever blessed/thankful to Meg and God and his plan. Having a son die suddenly and not knowing the Word, I had that chance that we all hear about to choose the darkness or the light. I chose God’s light and to walk with the Lord as He and I rebuilt my life without my son. Since I chose God, my family has been blessed X a million; it’s incredible. This is my 6th year in BSF and I’m hooked. I have made life- long friends from BSF. I know the Word enough to play it forward with others who grieve. God has placed me in front of so many who have lost a loved one. I had the honor of meeting a lady yesterday who lost her husband. December 23 will be two years, and I can see her sadness of going through another holiday without him. I look forward to sharing my story, BSF, and the never-ending light of God with her. God will fill your life with joy and happiness again. Thanks for reading this.
Thanks a lot for sharing, I want to share the story with others, and wanted to download it and save it. Please guide me, I appreciate these stories of encouragement.
I could not be more thankful for BSF! Although I had been a Christian for many years, I had an issue with how I treated my husband. I was pretty critical and did not appreciate him as I should. Even though I knew what the Bible said, I never really followed the precepts regarding considering my husband lord. But BSF helped me to become a servant and to get into the habit of being more the person God wanted me to be. BSF became the catalyst of change in my life. It’s been a process but BSF began the change and I am so appreciative of what God has done and is continuing to do. I thank God for BSF!
My wife had attended BSF long before I did and because she was taking time to study Gods word each night, my curiosity drew me in because I saw a changed woman, a happier, more contented woman. So I joined a men’s group and after a few years, it gave me the courage to lead my Sunday School class . I was being fed Gods word at BSF and started feeding Gods word to my class at Church. It was then that I discovered my personal relationship with Christ Jesus! Before then, I had known a lot about Christ, but didn’t know Him personally! Thank you BSF, my time spent studying Gods Word, illuminated by Gods Holy Spirit, has literally saved my life!
The things from BSF was shared by member and I was very excited about it . And so I follow the lessons through her.
BSF has changed my life! I wish everyone could experience it. I had no idea the depth of relationship one could have with God until BSF.
After attending a welcome class 10 years ago, I walked out thinking ‘nah, this isn’t for me’. I filled out a registration card so it looked like I was interested and I hadn’t wasted their time, but I was dead set on not going back. 4 months later I got the welcome call and I have to say, I was pretty excited, what did I have to lose? I was the gal in the group who was always asking questions during discussion time. The rest of my group was patient and I loved hearing their insight–how could these women know so much about God’s word? I was simply amazed and a bit jealous if I’m being honest. I wanted that same knowledge.
While I attended BSF I was very reluctant to share, I didn’t really want them knowing what I was dealing with behind closed doors. Everyone else seemed to have more perfect lives than I did. No one else came within seconds of committing suicide? No one else struggled to put food on the table? No one else had a husband that hit them? I was embarrassed.
What I have learned is God had a plan for me all along. He planted me at BSF to build my strength, my courage, my faith, and my relationship with Him, so when I reached the deepest valley in my life, I could trust in Him….completely. God carried me through that valley and revealed Himself to me in ways I could never imagine. Now I am one of those knowledgeable women I desired to be like and I’m no longer embarrassed to talk about hard things because I learned that there is a group of women who are eager to pray for you and walk along side you.
I felt called to be a Group Leader this year. If you had asked me 10 years ago if I would be a group leader, I would have said ‘No Way!’ Like I said, God had a plan for me all along.
How Great Thou Art! (The song I just heard while finishing this-how perfect!)
This has really challenged me, so God help me to be an Ana
BSF opened my eyes to the work of the Holy Spirit. For years I struggled with depression and guilt for being depressed. I grew up in a Christian home, but secretly thought for a long time that it was too hard to be a Christian. 1Thess. 5:16-18 always made me feel like a fraud, because I wasn’t always joyful, I didn’t pray as much as I should have (certainly not continually), and I didn’t give thanks in all circumstances. I always wondered who would be able to live up to all these things.
Many times, I resolved to be a “better” Christian. I resolved to have a closer walk with God. To do that, I tried hard to have 1) daily quiet time 2) more prayer 3) more dedication to serving. Of course, each time I fell short.
Secretly, I concluded that it is easy to become a Christian (simply accept Jesus), but it is too hard to be one. BSF helped me to shatter that lie. This is my second year in BSF. Last year we studied Matthew. I saw the work of the Holy Spirit from a perspective I had not seen before. I learned that the mighty power that resurrected Jesus is the same Spirit who dwells in me and enables me to be more like Christ.
This was a new concept for me. I was so focused on “what to do”, I overlooked that first I should get out of my own way and let God do in me what I could never do myself.
When I go back and read those verses that used to haunt me and make me feel like a fraudulent Christian, I see now I didn’t read the last three words:
“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
I pray for God to help me understand more about living in the Spirit. This year, I am learning that God continually pursues me. I am glad He does. I am glad He didn’t give up on me when I essentially gave up on Him.
I have been a member of BSF for 37 years. One of my teaching leaders made it very clear that I couldn’t take in all the wisdom of God’s Word and not share it. Not long after that someone came to my church looking for volunteers for a ministry called Need Him. I knew God was calling me to this ministry. I have been involved in this ministry for many years and not a day goes by that I am not sharing either what I learned in BSF or directing them to the BSF website.
This is my 15th year attending BSF and I am so grateful to God for leading me to this blessed group of BELIEVERS. I was missing something but I didn’t know what it was until I became a part of BSF. I was attending church service faithfully every Sunday, sang in the choir, participated with different ministries for feeding the homeless but was not satisfied. I began praying for God’s help. Well, one day I was in the Mall shopping and a very friendly lady approached me, gave me a card and invited me to BSF because she said she felt I wanted to get closer to God. I thanked her but as soon as I left the store I threw the card away. I didn’t realize God had answered my prayers by sending this lady to me. I continued praying to God for direction and He sent me another lady that was a member of my church that said the same thing. She invited me to BSF and promise to go with me. I agreed to go and she met me there the following week. Just look how God works! The class I was placed in, my group leader was the first lady that invited me to BSF. As I am writing my testimony, tears are flowing down my face because God saved me and my entire household. I still have struggles but I can truly say He come quick when I am in need. Hallelujah to His Holy Name. Don’t stop praying, don’t stop believing! God is so faithful and when the doctor gave me up, nobody but Jesus healed me. When I was in need of food, God provided for me. God is a miracle worker and I’m still here. God kept me and I am no longer on any medication and I am really happy because God found me and gave me what I needed. Thank you to my BSF and I pray that God continues blessing everyone.
This is not the end of my story ……… I am so grateful for the things He Has, He is doing and will do for me and this ministry called BSF.
Twenty-five years ago, my own personal family Doctor invited me to start BSF to bolster my own faith and personal walk with God. Six years into BSF, in 2004 my wife and I were called into military ministry with Cadence International serving as part-time missionaries to the troops around the world. This has taken us multiple times to Italy, Spain, Germany, Okinawa and here in the US to South Carolina. What a joy it has been to use my BSF training and put it to use as a Bible teacher, leader, and friend to so many young men and women who are hurting for God. I’m still in BSF when we are home and still learning. BSF started me on a daily “deep and dirty” search, not just for answers to the questions, but to the Savior we call Jesus. The study through BSF has been pivotal to my military ministry and to my life. Thanks!
A friend from church had repeatedly asked me to come and visit BSF. I was already in a church group study, but she kept asking (THANKFULLY!). When the Revelation study became available through BSF in 2015, and she asked again, my husband and I both signed up. Little did we know that this study would transform our lives and our marriage!
We went through a major health battle in 2016-2017, and in studying the Book of John, we were learning that Jesus is the Bread of Life and the Living Water…our only true source of hope. Ironically, my husband was hospitalized for 28 days and could not digest food nor drink for 42 days. Jesus WAS our nourishment! It was a very trying time for us. Thankfully, he was healed! The study helped us to lean into God and learn to depend more fully on God and His promises. Since then, my husband has been a children’s leader and a men’s leader. I served as an Asst Children’s Supervisor one season and attend class every week. Having BSF in our lives, discussing our lessons and praying together has brought our marriage of 19 years to a much deeper intimacy with God and each other. We make better decisions together, too, as we work together. I have also used the BSF material to share with seniors and to help me write songs which I share to help spread the Gospel and memorize Scripture. I was especially interested in memorizing the Attributes of God and used a BSF hand-out as inspiration to write, record and share a song called, “Attributes of You.” It brings me so much peace. My husband and I are now going through another health battle but I have more faith and less fear due to my growing knowledge of God’s redemptive plan. I’m not fearless yet, but speaking and singing the Attributes of God and His promises really help me overcome anxiety. We also enjoy the fellowship, support & prayers from our BSF brothers and sisters. “We may not know what the future holds but we know Who holds our future!” Thank You, Lord and thank you, BSF!
Bsf holds a very special place in my heart. My mom and sister abrogated started going to bsf 2-3 years before I did. I’ve been wayward for awhile at that point. My mom would go to bsf, praying for me, the ladies at bsf praying for me .. one woman in peticular looked for me in California at a shelter while I was out there homeless.. This year is now my 2nd year in bsf and that lady is now my leader! Bsf has given me the chance to know my savior and get to know some of the most amazing ladies I have ever known in my life! Thank you bsf!
VERY ENCOURAGING
PRAYERS OUR JAILS HERE WILL ALLOW AGAIN OUR CHURCH MINISTRY TO GO INTO THE WOMEN FACILITY
Tan Ansell
11/8/2022
Why Am I Getting Baptized This Christmas
I am getting baptized this Christmas. It is not a random decision to make me look cool or fit in the Christian-centered United States. Rather, it is a personal and one of my proudest decisions that I have made to accept who I am and follow whoever created me—God.
The first time I came to the United States was 7 years ago, when I was an exchange student at Frostburg State University. I was lost, confused, and scared. Before I came to Frostburg, I thought my English was fabulous because I was the top student in my English department in Hunan University of Commerce in China. However, I was just like a frog at the bottom of a well. I encountered a huge cultural shock and I felt like a failure. In class, professors spoke too fast for me to understand and people around me always used slang and idioms in their spoken English. Besides, I had a hard time understanding students from the Middle East and Europe. In the first month, I was self-doubting a lot and was terribly homesick. It was at that time when one of my American friends recommended me to go to a local church with her. She said there was a free English lesson for international students to learn every Monday night. I saw hope and I went. However, when everyone was praying and closing their eyes, I was wandering around and wondering when I could eat and when I could learn to speak like a native American. I was only excited to enjoy free dinner there; I was disappointed by the tedious service and a simple English lesson. That was my first impression of a church—boring and simple.
The second time I went to a church was four years ago, when I was working as a caterer at Ashland University. It was at a wedding event, during which three of us waiters, an American, a Nigerian and a Chinese, were standing behind the tables and one of them exclaimed “God
blessed!” I turned over my head and said, “God is not real.” The Nigerian coworker looked at me in a very surprised way. He yelled, “are you serious? You are joking right?” I smiled and shook my head. Somehow, one of our managers came and stopped us from chatting, wanting us not to disturb the wedding. After that, none of us talked about it. However, when I went home, I realized I got a text message from the American girl, saying “Hey Sophia, are you free this Sunday, would you like to join our family dinner?” I was very happy because I thought I was “cool enough” to be a friend of an American. On Sunday, I went to her house and I was amazed by everything. First of all, she lives in the middle of the woods; second, she has a big family with 7 siblings; third, her father is a pastor and her mother is a homeschool teacher. Last but not least, all the family members including herself are talented musicians and skilled at various instruments. They prepared various American food and everyone dressed very formal. They told me they are Christians and I told them I was not. They were very respectful and wanted to hear what I believed.
It struck me deeply when they asked me what I believed. I did not know. I could not think of any firm beliefs. They did not talk much about the Bible with me nor did they mention God all the time. They only prayed for the food and then chatted with me like “normal” friends. It was a nice experience for me to see an American family and shared American culture. We ate, laughed, and shared. Somehow, a sense of respect came out of my heart. It was unexplainable. I know this family is blessed. I did not want to acknowledge God just like that. But I knew something was out there.
Going to the American girl’s family church every Sunday became a regular thing for me. I went there not because I believed in God; but for the family; I enjoyed spending time with them. However, Covid-19 outbroke and I was stuck at home. Later, they messaged me and told
me that they all got Covid-19. I struggled again. If God was real, why them? They were such nice people. They did not deserve such circumstances. So, I concluded God was not real.
The third time I went to a different church—the first presbyterian church. I first went three years ago, when I was invited by a Chinese friend to have a Thanksgiving dinner. I could not say no to food. I went and there were a lot of people waiting in line. My appetite went down when I saw too many people there and I wanted to leave. At that moment, a Chinese pastor showed up and greeted us with a big smile. She talked in Chinese to us and said, “please make yourself at home and enjoy.” I stayed and shared the table with others. I did not stay too long because I was afraid people who sat next to me would start “investigating” me by asking questions once they were done eating. I left with my Chinese friend and we felt joyful because it was a big free meal for us.
The fourth time, the fifth time, the sixth time……I went to the same church—the first presbyterian church was for food. I felt guilty a little bit at the beginning and when I realized nobody said anything to me, a non-Christian, I felt more and more confident coming hungry and leaving belly-fed.
However, due to Covid-19, most churches closed indoor services and I was forced to quarantine myself at home, additionally I had no income because my workplace shut down as well. I was devastated and I was scared. Still, I had to pay rents and other bills. I had no idea how to survive. It was one of the darkest moments when I felt so depressed and helpless. One night, my neighbor knocked at my apartment door and delivered dinner to me. We used to work at AU Convo and discovered we lived in the same apartment building, which has made us closer. Every night, she did the same thing—shared her dinner with me. She said she knew I did not go out for days, so she figured Covid shut down my work too. She gave me a wooden cross and said,
“Sophia, I know you don’t believe in God, but I want you to try at least once. Tell Him what you want and pray for it and He will answer.” I accepted and I did what she told me.
I prayed that night, “Dear heavenly God, please give me a better life in the United States. If you are real, please show me what I should do. I don’t have a job and I still need to pay rents. My boyfriend just left me and he broke my heart. Please give me a nice man that loves me and I can marry to. If you are real, can you show me where I belong to?”
God did answer my prayers. My life did change. A month later after I prayed. My workplace called me back and told me they reopened because essential workers were allowed to go back to work; I also met a nice man, now my husband, and we have a 16-month-old baby boy together now. And God showed me that I belonged here; He changed my heart.
I never wanted to own a Bible or read a Bible. Now I am excited and joyful to read the Bible. I never wanted to go in a church and go through any service. Now I love to and I am peaceful when I am in a service. I never wanted to talk about God and assumed he was made up. Now I know he is the true God and creator of everything. I am more and more excited to get involved in different Bible study fellowships, tea Bible study, and weekend church service. I have learned to love others and serve others unconditionally. I offer to cook at least twice a month for a local non-profit organization staff to show our appreciation to their dedicated hard work to the community. I am grateful for every Thursday Bible Study.
Yes, I am getting baptized this Christmas and I am saying goodbye to my old self. I want to embrace my new life with Christ.
BSF has been a great experience for me. I study God’s word to prepare for teaching Life Group lessons weekly but the opportunity to study and share insight with other men in the group has been an amazing learning experience. Studying on my own and then being able to share my perspectives while hearing those of others has provided more insight and led to increased enthusiasm to learn more and go deeper in the word for each new study session. The commentary and the lecture provided by BSF then has even more impact on my understanding of God’s Word.
I recommend BSF to anyone wanting to study the Bible and gain valuable insight and lessons that provide fellowship with others and even more understanding of the scriptures. It takes some commitment and as a benefit it returns far more value than the time and effort put into the studies. Thank you for the opportunity to participate. I plan on continuing in future studies.
I spoke to my neighbor concerning my interest in BSF. She invited me to “Bring A Friend” Day. I immediately knew that this was where I needed to be. I have been involved with many bible studies,but this is the most accepting and inclusive study group that I have experienced. I will quote one of my group members to say it is a “no personality” bible study. Just as Christ accepts us right where we are,so does BSF.
The lesson each week offers me encouragement for whatever I am experiencing at the time. I love my small group and we have become close through our sharing, All comments or questions are important. Thank you BSF.
I started BSF about six years ago. Prompted by a lifelong friend who was already involved with BSF. Soon after I started in Wichita Falls she moved but I continued going. (Usually, I need a familiar face to stay within my comfort zone) I have participated in many Bible Studies during my adult life but the way BSF presents the lessons I retain them! I have truly learned more about the written Word of God through BSF than any other study I have ever taken. I am so grateful for our leadership team, their friendliness and warmth bring me back year after year! Thank you, Jan H.
God has used BSF to change my commitment in reading His Word and sharing it with others.It has transformed me.I have been inviting others as we fellowship.
As a senior citizen I’ve heard and read scripture all of my life. Until I joined BSF and became part of the discussion about what we were reading I never really understood the significance of The Word in my daily life. God picked ordinary people to spread His teachings, to give warnings and rewards. That is a good lesson for me. The format designed by BSF through the Holy Spirit is very helpful. I’m so amazed every year at the groups put together. We have so much in common in our journey to this place.
I loved the story of God’s compassion demonstrated by Elisha’s retrieving the ax head lost in the Jordan. My hair stylist is a Believer, but I want to encourage her to trust Jesus, hard for her in her multiple challenging relationships. I texted her about “miracles in the minutiae” as I shared this Elisha miracle, and said, “Let’s pray about your lost truck keys” — something she’d been stressing about for months. She called me the next morning, SO excited. She’d been cleaning cupboards in her basement, came across a jacket she’d obviously worn months ago, tossed aside and forgotten during the summer. Yes, the keys were in the pocket! BSF provides the “God fodder” for reaching out to those He puts in my path.
Karen – so exciting! Love your obedience to text her – such a great reminder to act on those Holy Spirit prompted moments
One mid-winter day in the mid-seventies my wife made an emphatic plea that we go out for dinner. “ok”, I said, “get a babysitter and we’ll go”. but on the designated evening we already had a foot of snow with threats of more and I offered to cancel. “No, we’re going”, she said. Through a road that was barely passable and into a parking lot that was empty except for a waitress and a chef, we made it. The chef happened to be a cordon bleu caliber chef who worked for a wealthy local family and only once in a while at this restaurant. The waitress was the most professional and experienced one at this location. We had a table in front of a fireplace overlooking a huge expanse of snow-covered ground lit up by reelections from a full moon. The meal was outstanding. And it was during this meal that my wife declared, “last week at BSF I accepted Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior”. Almost 5 decades later she is still active in BSF and through her example and patience and BSF I, too cans say the same. We often reflect on that evening and how the Lord must have been looking over us both in love for her and knowledge of what was to become of me.
Thank you for sharing this story! Brought tears to my eyes. God is so faithful
It has been over 30 years I have had the blessing to be in BSF, first as striving believer, clinging on to the way I was brought up, doing things to earn God’s favor. The freedom didn’t become a reality until God allowed all my efforts to turn into failure and hopelessness. One day I sat in my den, screamed at the Lord, demanding an answer for why He allowed my honorable behavior to lead my family to financial ruin by the end of next day’s BSF class. At 16 minutes before the end of the lecture, the teaching leader told a story of a mother whose son is about to return home from tour of duty requesting to bring a friend who is without arms nor legs to stay with them. The mother said, “Let’s give it a try & see how it goes. The point, we often put God in a box of what we are willing to allow Him to be. This hit me in my gut & I knew that was God’s answer to me. My situation continued for few more years. But, my children realized how much they already have when they were told there will be no gifts for Christmas that year. And, I learned of God’s unconditional love for me, even when I was bad!
I’m the result of one of God’s miracles. I’m a widow living alone.
On Palm Sunday, 2019. I was eating angel hair pasta. It’s a very soft food. I have an esophageal stricture which is different from a hernia. The stricture, not uncommon among we older people, is a narrow area which can spasm. It happens, hurts, and swallowing is impossible. After a time, it will relax. Then one needs to go to the doctor to have it stretched.
This day as I was swallowing, the spasm happened. But my breathing stopped also! I was alone. I was 76, a retired R.N. and knew no one could rescue me before my brain died from lack of oxygen. The brain can live up to 3-4 minutes after your heart stops.
I did the only thing left. I prayed to Jesus! It was my life and I knew I was dying. He heard me and INSTANTLY, my symptoms stopped. I had no residual pain of any kind!
Usually one has discomfort in your chest after the spasm passes. It was as though nothing had happened. I had no future symptoms for the following 3 years before it returned.
I’ve been studying BSF for 8 years. I also do another bible study, EMPTY CASKET, through the church. The Lord has kept me alive to follow his lead.
I volunteer several places and try to help people he puts in my path. I even saved an injured crow during a tropical storm. I just prayed that he wouldn’t bite me and he didn’t. The rescue hospital kept him 10 days before releasing.
I have learned to put absolute faith in our Lord and He responds. “Ask and it will be given to you”.
Jeanne – thank you for sharing!!
Praise God for His love and compassion that reaches beyond bars. His word does not return void! Thank you Ana & Martha for allowing God to work in & through you to share the treasure of the gospel. May God continue to bless your ministry.
Estoy muy contenta estudiando la Palabra De Dios. Siempre había querido estudiar el Antiguo Testamento, pero no necesariamente asistiendo a un seminario Bíblico.
Estos estudios me han ayudado a conocer más De Dios, obtener más confianza en el camino de la fe. Mi esposo y yo lo estudiamos juntos antes de reunirme en mi grupo de estudio.
1963, Summer, the Abel farm where I grew up…[15 years old]
I left the house one August night to escape the summer heat build-up that impacted an aging farmhouse–leaving behind five brothers and two work-weary parents,,,, Once outside, I heard the hogs banging their snouts on their feeders; the windmill moaned high above them. A few cows turned to look at me as they swished their tails–ubiquitous flies in pursuit.
A breeze sifting through grove trees surrounding the farmstead beckoned, and I headed down the lane that connected our home to the main gravel road that led to our neighbors’ and the little town beyond. It grew darker as I took one step after another enjoying the cool night air, the quiet until I reached the end. Instead of heading back, I plopped myself into a soft grassy spot in the ditch, placed my hands behind my head and took in the stars and planets.
Why had I never noticed this before?!
A flurry picked up the tips of my hair; I breathed in and out; I felt my heart beat. Complete silence. And, then a voice, surrounding me: I HAVE SOMETHING PLANNED FOR YOU. AND, IT’S BIG.
God?
I stood, looked around, wanted more. I waited. I listened intently. Then, climbed out of the ditch and danced a little, skipped. I kept glancing at the sky. What did it mean? I HAVE SOMETHING PLANNED FOR YOU AND IT’S BIG. Would I be a missionary? Would I fly to foreign nations to do…. what are you saying, God?
I slept with my head next to the window sill that night–keeping it all to myself. After all, who would believe that God spoke to me?
Time passed; it doesn’t fail us in that respect. High school graduation, college in another state; a teaching job; marriage; children; retirement–not to mention all the ups and downs, roller coaster rides, near-cliff experiences, joys, mysteries, miseries that happen in everyone’s life. Often, I wondered What is this big plan, dear God? Please, just write it across the sky and then send a thunder bang so I’ll look up and notice it. What am I not getting? What am I missing that you want me to see?
Well, in March of 2020, COVID-19 arrived along with physical distancing and a different way of living and thinking. An opportunity to join a zoom Bible study group came along, and I said “yes.” Without sharing all the wonderful enlightening thoughts I studied during this Genesis study, the ah-ha moment came in one particular lesson when asked: What is the purpose of your life?
And, I thought, finally, the answer! According to the lesson: My purpose is to know God, love Him, enjoy Him, and glorify Him. We are to glorify God in whatever He calls us to do. Looking back, I realize that my life has been big, and that, I have to admit that BIG was not always beautiful. But each step I could see was intimately planned for me by my Creator King.
I have learned through my bsf group study that I am placed where I am in my particular family, my particular community, in my church, etc. during this time in history because God planned it this way. God provided this Bible study group of sisters-in-Christ just for me and each one of them, too. I feel blessed!
kathy – this is such a beautiful testimony of a BIG God and big life focused on Him. Thank you for sharing!
Thank you, Ana, for your bravery and willingness to reach out to these women. What a difference you have made in the Kingdom of God.
What a wonderful inspirational testimony Ana. You have given me courage to go and allow God to use me wherever and whenever there is a call. Thank you for your powerful testimony.
I joined a church in 1973 and some of the ladies in my wife’s circle started praying that I would accept Jesus as my Savior. They belonged to BSF. Several of their husbands also went to BSF and invited me to join. Studying God’s Word at BSF, listening to others share and kneeling beside my bed using a prayer card is how I accepted Christ as my Lord and Savior. I went from being a successful entrepreneur on the verge of divorce and huge drinking problem into “Bob the Burning Bush, On Fire For Christ”. God has given me “songs with a message” as I had a bad experience singing the first time and pledged never to sing again. I didn’t until after accepting Christ. He has had me teaching “Jesus Loves me” and the B-I-B-L-E to 3 & 4 year old’s over forty years. And now, God has had me start a blog. Because my denomination is splitting up and I will have to leave my church family if we don’t follow God’s Holy Word. Though all of this I’ve been able to encourage others to join BSF and to seek Jesus as their Lord and Savior. Yesterday I heard from a classmate (1965) and today a Viet Nam friend saying he wants to go to Heaven; both inspired by my (God’s) blog! God is so awesome. I’m back in BSF now because of what I’m dealing with in my church.
Eighteen years ago a friend in Sunday School talked me into coming to BSF which, Incidentally, was being hosted at our church. Through the last 18 years my level of spirituality has grown, my fellowship with God loving men has been fantastic.
I feel so much closer to our Lord
than before; when I teach Sunday School I am more confident that the Lord leads what I share.
I still attend and participate in my church’s Wednesday night Bible study, but nothing compares to the comprehensive written lesson and the sharing in my small groups. It is wonderful! Praise the Lord.
Gene
Raleigh, NC USA
This is my first year with BSF. I am almost 62 and I have been at my church for 35 years. The experience is far greater than I thought it would be. God set me up to meet the leader of our group in an airport terminal. I invite her and her husband to dinners at my sister’s house. I did not know at the time she lead a BSF group. While at dinner she talked about BSF and I had to join. I always want to be where God is equipping the Saints. The fellowship and the study are where one can grow in the knowledge of God. I am forever grateful.
I have grown up in BSF since the age of 3. My parents both attended and Monday night class just became part of my childhood routine. When I was entering my senior year of high school I decided I didn’t want to participate any longer – I had “too many other things to do”. My mom asked me to pray about it and I said the only way I would return would be if Mrs. Campbell was my group leader. I thought this was impossible as she was my leader the year prior and most leaders were moved year to year at that time in BSF. Sure enough after the first week of class my mom comes home and tells me Mrs. Campbell would be my leader. I rejoined class and because of Mrs. Campbell am a believer today. She saved my spiritual life, and ultimately my physical life. A few years later I would battle with depression and anxiety so grave that I attempted suicide. The Lord intervened and I am alive today only because of Him. I can’t even imagine where my life would have gone had I not attended class with Mrs. Campbell that last year of high school.
My daughter’s premature birth, her open-heart surgery two years later, two other surgeries for various things and me struggling with the PTSD from all of this; having to stop teaching to obtain my health was all a large struggle. BSF has helped me to see where God had his hand in every single stage of the journey. He’s always with us and never forsakes us.
I been stable in bsf from 2014 to date ,I have seen how bsf have helped me grow in knowledge and wisdom of the Lord,I have also learnt to rely on the Lord especially in difficulties.
BSF has been helpful since I’ve been growing as a Christian, it’s been there when I had no support or even persecution for going to Church.
I am married to a Muslim 41 years ago. I prayed that my husband will embrace the Christian Faith , up to this writing he did not. However, I reared our two adult boys as Christians and their lives shows my beliefs and values.
I was NEVER stopped by my husband to practice and live my Faith. To All God Be The Glory!!!
I used to serve very actively in my former church. Following a leadership dispute, I left to attend my current church 8 years ago. Faced with the competing demands of work and the inertia of having to start all over again in a big church, I happily entertained the thought that I had exceeded my quota of service to God – it is time now for my “break”. I became a “religious minimalist” – contented to just attend worship, CG and BSF, and leaving it to others to serve and lead.
I was hiding my talent and my current big church became my “hiding” place. But, there is absolutely no hiding from God, as the prophet Jonah would testify.
God patiently spoke to me over the years during BSF lessons. He told me in John 5:8 to “arise, take up your bed and walk”. When we were studying the book of Genesis, He corrected me that there was no quota or age limit in Moses’ service. Last year, He seriously warned me against hiding my talent (Matt 25:14-30).
With that, I decided to retire early and devote the first year of my retirement to God. Today, I’m happily retired, taking time to do my BSF homework unhurriedly, experiencing His goodness as I see His Word come to live in my life. As my BSF classmates lament the foolishness of the Israelite kings in PPKD, I could not help but was reminded of how foolish and futile I had led my life. Thank God for His tender mercy and grace that this prodigal son has returned!
Thank you for sharing your story. I have a similar experience a year this month. And yes moving churches after being all in and serving I have thought I need a rest. While God is gracious to give me the rest I have realized it is time to serve where I now worship and to do it just as fully and cheerfully as I served at the Lord’s direction and guidance. There is no time like now.
Anna what a beautiful story of how Jesus’ love is reaching the ‘unreached ‘ according to the worlds standards. it is inspiring and encouraging. I thank the Lord always for bringing us His word through BSF, it is life transforming.
BSF was the best 50th birthday gift. As I entered my jubilee year, the LORD called me into halftime for the next twelve months in 2022. It was morphing time, going from success to significance to surrender.
This is a timely post as I am almost at the end of my sabbatical leave and wondering what the LORD has installed for me next. I’ll be honest, throughout my sabbatical, I’ve been tossed and turned by my insecurity for fear of losing the worldly identity I have built over many years of hard work. The last months were a time of the LORD detoxing my life, stripping me of every bit of worldly success so I could genuinely remain in Christ alone!
BSF study is so rich it has helped me to indulge intensely in the Word of God with the Holy Spirit. Every lecture reinforces the inspiration by hearing the teaching. The fellowship and discussion with the ladies further stretch my contemplation by listening to how God works differently in others. Finally, the notes reinforce my learning with conviction to act in faith.
Psalm 90:12 reminds me, “Teach us to number our days that we may apply our hearts to wisdom” (NKJV). BSF nourishes my soul with God’s truth building a strong and stable platform for this critical point in my life as the LORD prepares my second-half plan to live the rest of my days according to His plan for my life.
I had a very rough childhood. Home was evil to me but I always had a praying mother. As I became an adult, I tried many church services with many women I dated/lived with but never learned the Books of the Bible. I always wanted to be proficient in the bible. Then along came a new girlfriend who introduced me to BSF about 2 years ago. I went thru 5 different groups but kept trying to find the right set of guys to Fellowship with. Well, the girlfriend left me but I still have BSF in my life! BSF is one of the best Christian things that has happened in my life!
Being confined to wheelchair chair my life was limited to where my husband would go. My God given calling has been ‘an encourager’. This i did faithfully. With time I grew in Word and Faith. When Covid hit, my ministry took wings as I could reach via zoom to different groups. By God’s grace I was called to minister to Youth and then suddenly BSF. My life looks more meaningful than ever before. God had a perfect time and meanwhile He was preparing me. Encouraging my GM gives me immense joy.
Natasha, WHAT is GM?
Hi Ruby – Group Members? Thanks for asking!
I was invited to attend BSF but thought I wouldn’t be able to make it on time as almost every day I would be late from work. However, I decided that I would pray about it and since attending BSF classes I have not missed a class for about 5 years. Also, I was invited to be a children’s leader. I decided that I would also meet requirements for transportation of children’s leaders driving 40 km for 6 months and God resolved my property issues. I have also not missed any class on zoom also. I found that through each lesson God is talking to me. Also, God is blessing me in construction of 4storey building and made resources available overcoming all obstacles.
I love God’s word and during Covid and having struggles in my marriage I needed more of His word rgan just Sunday online at that time. I prayed for a prayer partner and friend and the Lord answered. Betty is her name and she was leading a BSF study and invited me to come. It has been just what I needed. Studying the word and going over the questions in the group were so inspiring and I have learned so much. The notes are so rich and very helpful in gaining insight and applying God’s word to my everyday life. I’m now in my 3rd year of BSF and joint a group in person has been fun and more personal. We watch the lecture before breaking off into small groups. The lecture is a snap shot of the scriptures in the lesson and very helpful for bring it all together. All I can think about now is what a blessing BSF has been through some very hard times and I can’t imagine not being a part of this life changing ministry. Young and old coming together to learn and grow in relationship with God. Thank you BSF Leaders for giving your time to be used by God to help us grow and share our faith.
Hello, I was introduced to BSF in 2004, when I lived in Michigan and have participated whenever my family schedule allowed. BSF is a lifeline, when I needed it most. Kids were younger and I needed to fellowship and loved the presentation and format of these meetings.
God has used BSF to change my life through the study and application questions, encouraging me to relate better to and apply God’s word.
I share BSF with anyone I come in contact with. My daughter attends in Illinois, some ladies from an online healthy living group attend in their various states or visit our session in Virginia. I love sharing what I learn and how it impacts my week.I am so impressed by the speaker who summarizes the lesson and my group leader that has created a family with the women of our group.
God often works in mysterious ways. HE may not change my situation in life. But HE has, in my life, given me tangible evidence that HE is watching, cares and understands. HE is watching and has it under control. HE will act if and when HE chooses. Maybe not how I expect. It may be an unlikely event or word from someone when I need it.
I think God was behind it.
Thank you for sharing, Ana, may our Lord continue to use you as His vessel to bless others!
I started in BSF about 12 years ago at the urging of a dear friend. The study was Matthew. The study was at night. I realized driving at night was an issue so the next year I found a daytime study. I now teach in the children’s school program. God’s plan for me was always in the making. I love my role in BSF, and thank God each day for BSF.
14 years I shared a hospital room with a young pregnant mum who’d experienced a still birth. She was full of tattoos, piercings and foul language, so I befriended her. Almost a year into the friendship she asked my husband and I questions about where her dead daughter was. We didn’t answer her questions, but gave her a Bible and invited her to investigate Jesus by coming to the BSF John study that was just starting. She soaked it up! One day driving home from BSF she just “got it” and committed her life to
Jesus. Her partner soon followed, and a few months later, my husband baptised them the week before he married them. This couple are now in full time pastoral ministry and leading others to faith. Until their recent move we attended BSF together
For years I tried read and decipher God’s Word on my own. It was overwhelming. I joined other “studies” but they turned out to be opinions. I craved Scripture. A friend invited me to BSF…it took 2 years of her persistent invitation in my busy life for me to even think of accepting this invitation. I finally accepted her invite. On my first day I was overjoyed and convicted. God was trying to answer my prayer on her first invitation. Praise God he prompted her, and she persisted in inviting me! Fast forward to now, the impact of that invitation: my walk with the Lord grows deeper daily! I am now a Children’s Supervisor in our class…a role in which He has answered my prayer to grow me in deeper love and dependence in Him. And this Faith and love is carrying on into the next generation in my own family in that my daughter is now a student program Children’s Leader in another city and program. God is so faithful, loving, and intentional on a micro-personal and global level…to Him be the glory forever!
BSF has been a special encouragement this year for me. Our youngest son passed away in August and staying deep into Bible Study has kept my focus on God and His Love. I am learning to accept that God always has a better plan and that I can TRUST Him no matter what I face in this life. We can find His joy even through the sorrows and disappointments on earth. He has continued to give me hope for eternal life with my Lord, with my son and with all those who have believed in Jesus as their Savior. We have so much to look forward to!
I’ve been in and out of BSF since 1983 when I was finally able to be a part of BSF. I’ve been an asst CA, Group leader, prayer warrior for a pilot class in east Columbus, ACS for that class after the a pilot, an online Group Leader and a Shepherd leader in that same online group. Currently a member in the Gahana Day Women’s group in Ohio. I’ve experiencend God’s presence in every role He’s called me to serve. in each roll He’s given me.
Nearly cried reading this blog. It’s a simple but powerful story because our God is powerful. Amen
In 1993 I found myself broken by the pain of divorce and betrayal. A good friend led me to BSF to study John. It was exactly what I needed. I fell in love with Christ and grew to love him more each day. I still attend BSF today and find new ways to love God more and more. I am so thankful for God’s pursuit of me and for the peace I have with him in my heart. He changed everything in me from the inside out through BSF and he even led me to my wife. We are celebrating 25 years next year.Thank you Lord
Jeff – thank you for sharing!
Hello Ana,
Your story resonated with me. This is the second year that three friends and myself are leading BSF in a medium security prison in Ohio. It is such a blessing to study God’s Word with these incarcerated men. They have truly become our brothers in Christ.
Thank you for your faithfulness by continuing to go into prison and sharing the Word! God bless you!
Thank you for this story
Last year I was so blessed by BSF, I was 9 weeks pregnant when I received a breast cancer diagnosis, my BSF group was still being held online which allowed me to continue joining my class as I relocated for my treatment. I went through a lumpectomy and afterwards I was told that after all the biopsy analyzing and several image testing, I didn’t have invasive cancer, that they made a “mistake” in their diagnosis and I actually had a benign tumor with a tiny DCIS inside, which is actually pre- cancer, stage 0.
God heard our prayers and saved my baby and me from chemos, My BSF group was one of my greatest supports emotionally and spiritually, it was so refreshing to be encouraged by them every week and to keep my faith strong and my eyes on the Lord through it all, they rejoiced with me when we heard they healing news, they sent gifts to my baby, I was so humbled by being part of this group of loving and caring ladies with huge God fearing hearts, I will forever be grateful to my group and to BSF for provinding opportunities for us to grow in the Lord and walk together through life supporting each other.
Part – this is an amazing story. Thank you for sharing!
Praise God, Paty! I also experienced DCIS and felt God’s mercy and goodness. It was the beginning of finding my way to BSF.
I can fill the alphabet A to Z with illnesses God has put me through since 1969 with two rounds of blood clots, diabetes, osteoporosis, sacroiliac nerve pain & I’m still above ground sucking up air.
I have the Lord’s bucket list to work on + mine. To God be the glory.
This year through studying Jonah, in the Divided kingdom, I have learnt about Idols in my life, and the need of a compassion and humility, that is like God’s. I learn Elisha’s mission was one of kindness, and compassion. We are stating Amos. He is an unpaid prophet and a Shephard of the Vinyards, and vine dresser. I have been studying the Scriptures since my daughter was 3, she is now in her 40s But I’m still learning.
Thank you for sharing!
I grew up with my mom doing BSF and I’ve always had a dream of being apart of it. In the fall 2021 our church was just starting to open up from covid and not much was being offered due to the re opening. The Lord reminded me of BSF. None of the in person times worked with my work schedule so I looked into the online groups. I landed in a wonderful international group! My leader is in Uganda and we have the nation’s represented. I was emotionally and mentally challenged from the isolation of covid and many deaths of loved ones in my life. Being in the Bible daily and the format of BSF with these wonderful international ladies pulled me through. It honestly was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made as an adult! I loved it so much and grew so much I joined up again this year!! What a blessing!! Thank you BSF!!
Jessica – so grateful for that group!
Shalom! When I first started BSF in 2020 after my retirement, I was so excited to dig deeper into God’s Word. And, I’m sure He was excited I was finally eager to learn more about the Scriptures and the people in the Bible who changed the course of history. Studying more in-depth and increasing in biblical knowledge as provided in the lessons, the group discussions, and the lecture has definitely changed my life, and I always encourage others to attend. I even have one attendee’s notch in my belt, and she’s gone on to “leaders training. Praises up! BSF is the “best place ever!”
I had a friend who told me about BSF for years until one day when she said they were studying Revelation, that peeked my interest which was eight years ago. The Holy Spirt has kept me connected even when I thought I was ready to take a break I couldn’t stop. I love how the lessons help you think deeper about what you are reading and learning. I do my study everyday after my quiet time…the best part of my days.
The steps we undertake with every lesson in BSF give us the opportunity to hear truth from the Holy Spirit. Recently we have been hearing about prophets who were called to speak God’s word to kingdoms. The prophets had varied responses to their call. Jonah ran but Elisha pursued God. We have a mission to call our communities back to God. How are we responding?
David – well said!
I was scammed for money 2 different times. My credit is horrible God told me this was so wrong – not taking care of yourself. I wasn’t in church but I’m in a choir now at a church n I am beyond what God will continue to change my life
My first BSF class was in the 1980’s. I knew about Jesus but I didn’t know Jesus. I owned a Bible but I never read it. Fast forward to 2022. In the past many years I have been a BSF leader, led Bible studies in my church and answer readers questions for a well-known online Bible website. BSF has changed my life from one of confusion to one of confidence and understanding what the world is all about. God is a real part of my life and I have made some great BSF friends who are an important part of my life all because I obediently followed God’s call to study the Bible.
Anna, my name is Phillip and as a teenager, I was quite rebellious, into hard rock music, drugs, alcohol, and sex. Then on one miraculous morning at 3:00am, I reached out to Jesus, for forgiveness, and He filled me with His Holy Spirit; And I never looked back at my dismal life. I praise Him every day for His truly transforming power for personal growth and constantly renewing our minds from the countless lies I once believed.
Kepp on serving Him my dear Anna, and you will never regret it.
Praise the Lord Phillip. Your message is so wonderful as so many young folks in these times need what you found, a reason and God our Savior. You keep going trying to get your story to our Youth.
They need that help
Phillip, Thanks for sharing your story that God is writing! He will use even all your rebellious past stories for His redemptive plans to call those who He chose to love. Nothing is wasted in our sovereign Father’s hands! Praise Lord!
Thank You
This is what Jesus meant when he said, “ feed my sheep”
The men’s prison system in the US does not allow digital devices so people who would like to benefit from BSF would not have the materials. I hope BSF HQ explores a way to support a lightweight print version of the BSF lesson plans that can be easily sent to reach prisoners behind bars. Also AI systems are improving translation efforts such that more languages can be offered, esp for those in Arab countries.
Hi Pete! We work with each prison to understand their specific needs/requirements when it comes to lesson materials. Most often, lessons are printed at local print shops and paid for by BSF. We also look forward in prayer to the day when we can reach more inmates with God’d Word and continue to increase translation efforts so that BSF is accessible to all. Thanks for your comment.
I received this email this week from a gal that had been in my BSF group about 8 years ago.
It has been a few years since I’ve reached out to you! I hope you are well. I wanted to tell you how thankful I am for you.
Currently, I am completing a Master’s of Divinity at Regent University in Virginia. I’m still in Minnesota, just taking their online classes. In one of my courses I’m completing a spiritual autobiography that details the circumstances leading to my conversion. I couldn’t write this without including you in the story. Suzie, you were such an encouragement to me and poured love and wisdom into my hungry heart. My marriage would have failed had I not enrolled in BSF and who knows where I’d be right now. To God be the glory! He came in and changed everything.
Thank you so much for meeting me with grace and speaking Godly wisdom into my life. Thank you for taking the time to talk to me each week and pray for me. God used you and it had tremendous impact.
I truly hope you are well and would love to hear from you anytime.
Many blessings to you,
I started a BSF class 25 years ago. I remember sitting in the class thinking that all of the devout women in my class were crazy. How could they believe what was being taught? After one month I quit BSF. It was just too much for me. 7 years later God got a hold of me and I called my old discussion leader and told her I wanted to come back. When I told her my name she said, “Valerie I have been praying for you!”she also told me that I called on the church line and that she never answered the church phone. God was paving the way for me to go to BSF. I have never stopped coming.
Eleven years ago, I had a newborn and was taking a break from leadership when I was diagnosed with terminal breast cancer. The numerous specialists I met with confirmed that even with aggressive treatment, I had “no hope” to be healed. The leadership team and my group came around me, and my story spread like wildfire. The Lord used His people to encourage me, and He ultimately used His power to miraculously heal me.
I’ve had countless opportunities to reflect on this over the years, and celebrated a decade of true health last February–right before my husband was unexpectedly diagnosed with cancer! The leaders and participants are different than when we walked through it the first time, but the loving spirit and His Word do not change. With my husband sick and going through treatments, a new generation of loving friends have been there to encourage me. Yet again, it seems that the lessons all align to provide what I need, when I need it. I’m so grateful for BSF, and for all the devoted leaders who pray for and pour into His children!
Last year a dear friend received a terminal diagnosis to attend an online mini-study. Our BSF online group began praying for her, and I invited her to attend one of our mini-studies. She visited, was intrigued and stuck around. Then over the summer we did a couple of the WordGo studies together. She’s accepted Christ and is now a beloved member of our study group. I’m so grateful that BSF provides a way to invite people to check out a loving community with zero commitment. God does the rest!
In 2009, I wanted to suicide. A girl called Caroline huge me and told me: God loves you ! She brought me to BSF Shanghai. I knew nothing about the Bible. 1 year later, after attempting BSF each week in Paris, I gave my life to Christ during a BSF lecture. I received the Holy Spirit and all my life changed radically : my character, my objectives, my heart everything! thank God for having saved me through BSF !
Noemi – I give thanks to God that you are alive! I hope you know that you are God’s gift to others who might be going through similar circumstances! I know God will use you to show His love to others!
Because I can do BSF from anywhere, it has provided a very important thread of continuity in my life. We travel often and Christian community is hard to build. But with BSF I know I am part of a worldwide Christian community. I can submit prayer requests and participate in discussions in person or on virtually. I’m SO grateful for the flexibility that BSF demonstrated so that I may participate!
Thank you!!!
I love this. I always thought it would be awesome to create a contact list, if people wanted to participate and reach out to one another outside of meetings. Would love to connect!
Our BSF Lesson 12 is about the Book of Jonah.
When I was younger the book to me was just about Jonah and the Big Fish.
Digging into the 4 chapters of the Book of Jonah now, made me reflect and pray :
I do not want to be in the belly of the big fish.
I do not want to stink with unforgiveness, lack of compassion, mercy and ungratefulness.
I do not want to be wasting my time away rejecting and running from God.
I want my remaining breathe and strength to be used by God to share His love,
His word to people around me regardless of their treatment with me.
May I look at every person through the lens of God’s amazing grace.
May I always understand God’s infinite, relentless love for me and may I extend such love too others.
That is what I desire and that is what I intend to do for the rest of my life.
Soli Deo Gloria.
These are the very words I was praying to God about yesterday since studying the book of Jonah last week. Thank you so much for sharing your experience as it has greatly encouraged me and confirmed what I had been convicted of and expressed the desires of my heart.
When I studied “Israel and the Minor Prophets” in 2003-2004, I sensed God wanted me to rebuild my wall according to Nehemiah 3. That calling involved many new changes in my life that involved submission, Biblical worldview, activism, political involvement, truth, prayer and revival. I recently had an opportunity to share this testimony in Menard,TX to a struggling church which needed encouragement and revival. God continues to change me and encourage me through my BSF lessons.
I’m so grateful for BSF and wish I had joined prior to retiring mainly because I needed a personal relationship with God while going through trials and tribulations at work. The studying of the Bible and the groups have helped me immensely.
The past year was very challenging for me, and deep within myself I felt isolated and apart from my spiritual roots. I anticipated feverently to belong and feel that spirit that I’d always depended upon. Bible Study Fellowship was my answer, and from day one the spirit of the Lord covered me as it had so many years prior through it’s ministry. No other practice of learning the scriptures, nor reverance in the teaching of God can surpass BSF. Thank you God for this sisterhood of believers! Amen🙏🏾
Tonya – beautifully said!
Totally agree, well said.
Hi Tonya, my name is Phillip, and I can identify with you about your comment about isolation. Often in the Christian community life can be quite superficial and shallow, but I have found by sharing my life experiences with compassionate and caring friends, that my walk with Jesus carries new meaning. I will pray that Jesus fills your heart with His love, and encourage you to keep on truk’in.
I became a Christian at the age of 22, but walked away until I was in my mid-30s. I was a drinker, used terrible language, and was a very unhappy person, until my children invited me to an AWANA night at the church they were attending. My husband and I began attending. In 1987, we committed our lives to Christ, though didnt get serious about it until 1996. Still, the Lord worked on me. He delivered me from alcohol and bad language. He made me a much happier person. I have many regrets, but God is good. He will change you if you let him. BSF has helped me to grow even deeper in my faith.
Hi Kathy, God is indeed the restorer of our feeble lives. I give Him praise also for setting me free from a life of drugs, sex, and alcohol.
I was raised as a Orthodox Jew. It want until I taught at a school that my friend played messianic music when I came over to her house.
I got let go of my job and called when my heart was stirring Told me to the Jesus people church in MPLS. To fine a messianic congregation and accept the lord and ran and gave him. All my sin. New person in Yeshua my messiah
That’s wonderful Sylvia. The Jewish people have a special place in my heart. Yeshua please bless my sister in Christ. Shalom x
My BSF journey began when I was became a newly believed. The church I used to attend. One Sunday afternoon the service I was setting with my sel leader two elderly woman setting beside us. The elderly told me about the BSF and one gave me the form. I usually work on Tuesdays but I decided to BSF that week. That I now I had the God calling. But I was fully understand.
When I join BSF my English was not very good and my reading was poor. I wasn’t able to share much. Through the help of the Holy Spirit I was able to learn how to here the voice the God thought His word.
When I was joining the BSF was a new believer. I don’t where to start in Bible. The help of the Holy Spirit I I’m able to here the voice of God. Before I was feeling nervous to share my new faith with friend and family. Because of the strong Muslim background I came from. The word of God transforming me in many big ways. Now I know this where God His calling me. I wanted to share Jesus Christ with everyone in confidence.
The lesson ,sharing and the lecture so helpful. BSF had transforming my life.feeling fear and doubts but when starting to trust God. My faith ingress and gave me confidence in his word. I now wanted to share Chris with everyone.
Fatou – your faith is contagious! Thank you for sharing. “I now want to share Christ with everyone.” I am praying for a bold faith like this for all of us in BSF
I started BSF after a friend told me about it 5 years ago. It was a hard time. I had a car accident that year and it was an uninsured motorist that ran into me after passing out in his car and I couldn’t avoid him. I was sore but ended up with only a concussion symptoms and a broken wrist. My mom was so sweet and almost 90 and tried to help. Then a week later she fell and ended up witha brain bleed and died one day before her 90 th birthday. Also my husband had lost his job and he had accumulated debt that I wasn’t aware of. I was feeling defeated for sure and signed up for BSF. It was Romans. I then realized that the shirt company my son in law had started was CXXI apparel – it was a Romans verse- do not conform to this will but be transformed. . . I knew it but didn’t connect it. Then i was cleaning out my closet and found a couple of CD’s with a sweet note from my sister in law. I put them in to listen and yes it was Romans that her pastor was preaching to me. I then ended up going to a special women’s church event with my daughter and was talking to the new pastor’s wife at the event and was going over my story with het and she “giggled” and smiled and said that is what we are going to study here this year. ! I felt like i was meant to be in BSF and right where i needed to be! Since then i have learn a lot from these studies. I took one year off and ended up going back the next year! It helps me stay connected to God and Godly people. I hope to continue for years to come. I have since been baptized also. Thank you for providing this to us of us! I would Love for my husband to find one he could attend in our area.
I was moving to Sydney Australia from Chesapeake Virginia with one pre-school daughter. What I did to better transition was from one country to another was to enroll in similar groups; one being BSF. There is no better pre-school training in the gospel for my daughter, not to mention myself. Every other Bible study felt like the same jingle from diet drinks “taste great but less filling”! Full on scripture with no fillers or opinion is where it’s at for me!! When I heard the testimony of the Ladies in Sydney Australia going back to their home countries such as China, and the radical salvation stories from these women’s testimony due to their now found faith through BSF, I was truly moved!!! For all you women relocating ANY WHERE there is a BSF for you!!!
My sister died of ALS ten years ago now. My brother was diagnosed with ALS eight years later also. There is only a five percent chance that ALS will affect other family members, but it hit my family hard. I was struggling with my emotions and asking God, WHY? A friend invited me to BSF and I have been there ever since. I have learned so much and I am amazed how the Old Testament and the New Testament weave together. BSF has changed my life!
God has used BSF to change my life in so many ways. I was invited to BSF by someone that was a client of our landscaping business who I met in the hospital when my husband had a chainsaw accident in her yard, and she came to see how he was. We became “family” in so many ways after that.
In the first few months that I joined BSF over 10 years ago, He took away my fear of death. I used to have panic attacks since I was 18 years old about that, and He took it away in my 40s.
He also taught me to be bold in my faith. I am married to a Muslim man and out of respect for his religion, I did not flaunt mine, but I was missing seeing crosses up around my house, so slowly I started putting them up and my husband even bought me one for the living room! Now I have one in nearly every room in the house! I was also led to being bold in teaching the Bible to my son, and now after all these years, he knows the Bible probably better than anyone his age (15).
Being in BSF has brought the best friends that a person could ask for because of our shared faith and bond and I feel so blessed today by those friendships!
I share BSF with everyone on my Facebook feed! I even have a jewish friend who just joined this year, as she was curious about it out of California, while I am in South Carolina.
Maria- thank you for sharing!!
HI Maria, I too can relate to having panic attack and a chemical disorder, which I struggled with most of my life. I am though realizing that with God’s help, and good friends to share my trials with, that I am slowly starting to get control of my life once again.
Ana, thank you for sharing your story and taking the love and gospel of Jesus where He sent you. The Lord has laid on my heart to pray for D. She is housed in a women’s prison in Florida. Living in Canada, I’ve fervently asked the Lord to send one of His beloved harvesters to this woman with the gospel. If ever the Lord brings you to her please tell her someone in Canada has been praying for her and that Jesus loves her. Thank you so much for saying ‘YES’ to Jesus and taking His Salvation to these women who you see simply as lost souls that need Jesus God’s grace, peace and protection be with you.
Almost 12 years ago I was invited by a woman from work to attend my 1st BSF. I was really out of place but I loved the study and the organization of it and my leader made me feel so warm and welcomed. By out of place I mean I looked like the homeless hippie among the beautiful rich wealthy women of the community. I really wasn’t poor I was just a rebellious teenager who had taken a stray path for a few years before putting myself through college after a divorce and had been in recovery from a few bad choices. Thankfully I had always believed in God and I knew that God was with me. However in my religious Upbringing I didn’t get to read The Bible or study about Jesus. I was eager to learn.
That year my friend that invited me complained about bsf the whole time. I was absorbing and loving it. I wasn’t perfect but I did the best that I could and would make up the homework in my own time. I felt close to God. The next year we tried hard to be in the same group but she ended up dropping out halfway through. Then in spring my stepdaughter died. Without my group I would have crumbled. I grew stronger. In my 5th year my father died. I am an only child and was instantly responsible for everything including my mother. In my 6th year my own son died. My devastating grief has been tremendous but my study has taught me what I need! In 2020 my mother died. And my This is
now my 13th year! God is my refuge and strength.
Christina – This brought tears to my eyes. Thank you for sharing! “God is my refuge and strength” – so powerful
My story starts at the tender age of barely 18 and after the death of my mother at 16. I met my husband to be at kings beach in Lynn, Ma., we dated for 7 months and I became pregnant, I don’t even know how, he proposed after 3 months and I said no, too young. My father wanted me to abort, never entered my mind, I was petrified, didn’t really know the meaning of love, my grandmother was raising my brothers and myself at the time, we got married had my daughter, only through God’s Grace still married 55 years, believe me, not easy, I could write a book….I was raised Jewish but always believed in Jesus, now at the age of 74 my daughter has 3 daughters, and my son, who died suddenly of cardiomyopathy, 2years ago, has a son, he is only 7, the girls are seniors in HS and the oldest a junior in university …..my life at this stage is far from what I expected, I am leaning into Jesus, he is my everything, all our elders and best friends and most significantly our son are gone, if not for my strong faith, I’m not sure where I’d be…thank you for reading this brief summary of the my life, many blessings with God nothing is impossible…..
Precious Joyce – your testimony of faith and Jesus as “your everything” is a gift to all who read it. Thank you for sharing!
What a beautiful witness of courage and the power God gave Ana to minister. He is amazing and so are you Ana.
This blog made me weep with gratitude. Thank you for taking the time to share. I am greatly encouraged!
When I was a young teen my mom began studying bsf. She was a lifelong Christian but I watched her life change as she studied and eventually became a leader. She taught Sunday school classes for adults the rest of her life. It made a great impression in me. Now I’m retirement I am able to attend
I was in a dry place – loving God, believing God but warn out with life. In 2010 I was praying for a Bible study, one that studied the scriptures, for accountability, to learn more about the Old Testament and the historical information of that time period, and a study of Revelation. I started in Sept. 2010 in the new study of Isaiah and saw God was in this place, and witnessed a personal miracle in our family. I remember telling God it had everything except for the study of Revelation. Fast forward a few more years and we are in a new study of Revelation, but God has more planned and I find more miracles happening in my life and in the study I so much wanted I’m called to be a group leader. I feel inadequate But God needed me where he found me. I’ve learned dependence on Him is full of blessings beyond measure, in the summer of 2019 I asked God to see His miracles in others lives. Today I witnessed another BSF sister see a miracle in her life-Her Story intertwined with prayers we prayed and trusting God for he is the God of “I Am Possible!”, not impossible-What a blessing to behold – God is in this Story-God is in the details!! After many tears of heart felt prayers today the tears were overflowing with joy🙏❣️watching her family and the love that flows form each was a blessing I continue to thank God for 🥰. Jane and I have a BSF bond in your story that we praise God for! His body coming together to behold His miracle 💗
Ranita – amazing!
Seven years ago, I was deeply hurt by the women in a discipleship group I had been attending. They refused to walk along my childless path full of grief. I finished that study but didn’t want to be in another group any time soon. A friend that walked with me through this disappointment and pain invited me to join her for the next BSF study after the summer. I was hesitant, but then another woman that I was serving with elsewhere invited me to the same BSF study group and I got the clue that God was calling me to join BSF. I attended at first by just answering the questions and not opening up, but then I saw how our group was a real sisterhood under Christ that focused on the main thing while loving, caring, and praying for one another. I fell in love with not just the in-depth study of God’s word but the women that stepped alongside me in this journey of life. I was asked to be a Group Leader the next year and served as a GL for 5 years until I felt God call me to the Class Administrator position this year. It has definitely been a growing experience all along the way, especially this year. Our Leaders Circle has walked with me through the grief of childlessness into God molding my heart’s desire for children into adopting a sibling group from foster care. My husband and I are currently in the process of visiting with 2 sisters up for adoption in the foster care system. My BSF sisters every week are eager to see our new pictures of the girls from visitations and eagerly anticipate the day with me that I become a mom through adoption. I couldn’t have done this journey without them and love my BSF family.
Margaret – thank you for sharing. Praying for you and your husband! God is doing amazing things in and through you!
Am grateful for this inspiring testimony, it has brought hopes to me in particular, I believe through BSF I will get closer to God by understanding his word on daily basis. Glory be to God.
God wants his children to obey Him so that He can bless and reward them now and forever. This year’s study about the divided kingdom is showing me how God sends us messengers to call us back to him because of His great mercy. His messaging starts with the visible and keeps going. The heavens display His majesty, creation on the earth shows His design through our eyes, His prophets declare His will to us through our ears, the Holy Spirit speaks directly to our minds, and then He sent His Son to appeal to us in every way. God is not only merciful, He is gracious.
Thanks again BSF for bringing out the endless details I would overlook. The message from God keeps getting clearer thanks to BSF’s help.
Thank you Jesus for the fruit your Word and example gives us, we truly are like lost sheep without you as many here testify.
May BSF grow by millions and billions in this generation building up your church, your body and blood, the family of God. Help us the church to be holy, faithful and true despite opposition, ridicule, persecution and even death.
Stand firm brothers and sisters, depend on our Father, Son and Holy Spirit to make us one chosen race, royal priesthood, and holy nation. Make us one even as you are One, O God, our Rock and salvation.
Amen!
My husband and I moved to a new city in 2020 two weeks before lockdowns and I was 12 weeks pregnant with our first child. We left family, friends, everything. Naturally being an extremely extroverted person, the isolation, lockdowns and inability to make friends really took a toll on me. I suffered from depression, and struggled with anxiety. Still to this day, I do but it’s getting better little by little. I made one friend (a neighbor) who introduced me to her realtor who became a friend to me as well. She invited me to BSF and after waiting months on the wait list for my 18 month old, I finally got in! I made lots of new friendships and made a couple of very close ones in particular. It’s so nice to grow in the word of God with other women and to have lasting friendships and fellowship with Christian women who can support me in my faith when I need it the most!!! I feel so blessed that I was able to join BSF! I’m pregnant with number 2 and struggling in the pregnancy with anxiety, depression and a high likelyhood of cholestesis occurring again, but I know I have support and prayer and fellowship to help me get through this time! Almost like how God gave Elijah Elisha to be his friend and help him in his loneliness and isolation. BSF has blessed me greatly and I am so thankful to have these ladies!
Jess – praying through this pregnancy with you! Thank you for sharing, such an encouragement
When I was newly married and my husband was an intern at a church I backed into a BSF leader’s car. That was my first experience with BSF and later I joined a study for several years. We moved away and there was no BSF nearby until a friend told me about online BSF a few years ago. Now I am retired and doing the online study. Our son recently married a woman from Bangalore India where he now lives. I encouraged my daughter in law’s mother to join BSF and she loves it. We are truly an international family
Denise – Love this story! Thank you for sharing!
This is my fifth year and each year I been drawn closer to God, learned more on how God works in individuals lifes to improve their prayer life knowing that God is listening.
I have been blessed to have a group in a Maximum Security Prison. Covid knocked us down but God has restored and multiplied since we have been allowed to resume classes. We returned for the last 6 lessons of Matthew, and were shocked to only have 10 men out of the 34 we had when Covid hit.
This year we have 68 men studying PPKD, the men have testified that BSF is the best study in the prison.
Amazing!
As a mother of three, one with severe disabilities and terminal illness, Bsf has been a life changer for me. During quarantine, I really isolated myself and became a hermit. I feared for my children’s health. I saw a counseling after coming out of quarantine and decided to try Bsf for the first time after hearing about it from any friends. I’ve always had a difficult time studying the Bible, but enjoyed listening to sermons. Last year was the first time I studied the Bible in depth through BSF despite being a Christian for over 30 years. Now this is my second year, join Bsf and setting the Old Testament is challenging, but to do this with a group of other Christian women who want to see after God more and study the Bible more is very encouraging to me. This is a great program and encourage others to join.
Trinity- so grateful for your perseverance. You are a gift!
Gods has adventure waiting for all who are willing to follow. For me 20 years of BSF, growing closer to Him each day and each day starts like a new beginning. Outside of BSF i to like Ana have the privilege to bring Jesus into our county jail and introduce Him to broken searching men. God allows His people the privilege to reach into the lives of the lost/hurting and to experience up front and close seeing Kingdom of God advance right before our eyes. I was blessed just this year to baptize a good friend into the Kingdom. Blessed to have my daughter ask me to officiate her wedding next summer. My favorite God/BSF story is i have been praying for several years to have my 8-year-old Granddaughter join me at BSF – as a CL i so want to share BSF with her. Unfortunately, because of circumstances Monday night BSF won’t work. But just like God always does He opens the doors. I will be starting a one-on-one bible study with her on Wednesday nights. Starting Wednesday December 28th, 2022, after school I will be introducing her to Gods Word and begin what i hope is a lifelong love for the bible for her. Thanks be to God for His never-ending pursuit of His Children. In His Grace, Gary.
Gary – amazing! Praying that time will be so sweet with your granddaughter
Uplifting story
And I am a licensed mental health therapist. I am also a Christian. I have the opportunity to influence believers and unbelievers for Christ in my work. About 15 years ago, I determined to saturate myself with the word of God. I realize that I needed his wisdom, power and intimate relationship, in order to be light and have the energy to do the work that God has called me to do.
I believe I am gifted with mercy and encouragement. God uses me and my many years of BSF training to be His light to both Christians and non-Christians alike.
Thanks for your work and your willingness to share Christ with the lost.
Beautiful 😍
I first came to BSF not knowing I wasn’t saved.
The Word by His Spirit and prayer fellowship healed me spiritually, emotionally and physically.
I am a lifetime member of BSF volunteering and bring others to study.
God has blessed be beyond measure through BSF and I am grateful to Him for the opportunity to be a part of it over the last 30 years as group member, group leader and children’s leader. I’ve learned how to study God’s word more deeply, see the bigger picture of the Bible as unified story of God’s love and redemption for people, it has help me learn how to grow in my own personal relationship with God and that means the world to me. God has used BSF as encouragement and stability in my life with times were hard and He has used it to help me learned more comfortably how to share Jesus with others and lead others in Bible Study and small groups. Lastly, the people in BSF are lifelong friends, influencers and encouragers in my life. Thank you, God, for BSF.
I was on a business phone call with a customer I speak with every few months. Last month, I felt emboldened to ask him how he was doing personally. To my surprise, he shared with me some challenges in his life. After listening to his concerns, I asked him if I could prayer for him. He then asked me if I knew of any good Bible studies I could recommend. I immediately connect him with a BSF Online Trainer for followup to get him into the right group and time since I am in a physical group and he is located in another state.
Today, he called me to let know he attended his first group meeting this week and felt very welcomed by the men. He also wanted to ask me some questions about what he is learning!
Thank you Jesus!!
I have been in BSF for 20 years now. I told my daughter that when I retired, I wanted to take my grandchildren to BSF. I transferred to the DW class in the city where she lives the year I retired. I took both of my granddaughters (beginning at age 2 and birth) to BSF until they aged out of the pre-school program. They are now 10 and 7, and have both accepted Jesus Christ as their personal Savior. God’s word will never return void!!! I am currently an ACS and am continually seeing the fruit of the truth of God’s Word at work in young lives. Praise the Lord for BSF and the promise that “He who has begun a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus!!” Phil 1:6
I was invited to BSF on my early years as a believer. After one and another excuse, I finally ran out of them and decided to give it a try. It has been 16 years since then. The first time I was called to serve as a CL I thought “how could I with my strong accent???!!! (Does it remind you of Moses?)” but God grew me and taught me it was not through my own strength but through His power… it has been my privilege and honor to serve Him as a CL, GL, ACS, CS, and CA. To Him all the Glory.
Luisa – thank you for sharing!
Tears are running down my cheeks at the faithfulness and power of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. To God be the glory!
God pursuit and compassion changed my life. I was brought up in a Christian home and was baptized at age 12. In my late 20’s, I was rebellious and strayed from my faith. I never doubted there was a God, but put God on the “back burner” of my life. But, praise The Lord, He pursued me & I didn’t even know it. God never gave up on me, even though I was not walking my life as a child of God. One day, I knew something in my heart was missing, even though my life seemed OK. I prayed, Lord something’s wrong with my life, please help me come back to You. Well, God didn’t waste anytime. People, and circumstances in my life changed almost immediately. (I know now people were praying for me.) as I look back on those days it is amazing. I got in a Bible Church, I went to several Christian seminars, and several Christian friends counseled me. I was returning to the Truth and what Jesus did for me on “the cross” The more time I spent in Gods Word, the better my personal relationship with Jesus grew. But, I still wanted more. A friend introduced me to BSF, and I started within a month studying Romans. Fast forward 25 years, and I am still in BSF. What a blessing, and honor it has been. The spiritual vehicle of BSF has helped me be disciplined in studying Gods Word. The prayers and fellowship with other BSF sisters has kept me accountable, but most of all Jesus has changed my life and shown me my purpose as a Child of God.
I want to tell there’s about Jesus Christ, the Savior of all sinners. All we must do is put our Faith in Him, and let The Holy Spirit guide us in our daily walk. Thank you BSF for being a very important part of my Spiritual walk with the only True Sovereign God of all mankind.
For me BSF has been life-changing! I thought I knew Jesus, but not in the depth I have grown. Honestly, I cannot think of a better way for one to know His Word and apply it other than BSF. Others that I’ve invited and joined in the study echo my words! I praise God for the opportunity
In 1979 my husband passed away. I began attending a Bible Church but just could not understand the Bible and its meaning. I asked God to allow me to understand His Word and He led me to Bible Study Fellowship in 1981. Now in 2022 I am blessed to be a group leader. It is such a joy to see other women make Biblical discoveries through the four step study methods of BSF. At a time I felt totally alone God came alongside me and gave me hope.
God has strengthened me. Given me new insights, helped me who walk closer to him through BSF
Nice leader who is caring and kind
I shared about BSF to a friend of mine who is very lonely
Now she is attending BSF
Since it’s international
She is still lonely
How else can I help her
We live in totally different countries
There was a time when I was overwhelmed by illness and Dr.s had no answers. I became depressed and gave up on living. My husband joined a class and enrolled me in a class (an hour away) and I began to see that God is in control and life is in His hands not Dr.s. I am now a CL and I have an offsite group study in the New Legacy Home (a 15 month discipleship program) for women coming out of prison, abuse, addiction, etc. The way the children and these women see Christ is such an uplifting blessing! I am in awe of our great God and His love for each and every one! Through His word, freedom, love and obedience are blossoming!
I have limited activity so cannot attend church anymore, however I belong to a limited crochet croup that crochets prayer shawls, blanket, prayer hats and nursery hats with a written story of prayer and our church business card. This does not heal but is a reminder of the power of prayer.
That’s such a blessing! Thanks for using your gifts to help others.
When my 2 year old daughter died in a car accident, I claimed Romans 8:28 to regain my life. A friend invited me to BSF. Life application Bible Study was exactly what I needed. God healed my heart and gave me hope. Soon after we moved to Hong Kong with my husband’s company. I joined a new BSF class. I was asked to be Children’s Supervisor in a new preschool program. After 3 years, we moved to Singapore. I was asked to be Children’s School age Supervisor. My 8 year old daughter joined the class and gave her life to Christ through that class. (Later she led a Children’s Program group and took her 2 children to BSF. They now use BSF during home school.) Then we moved to Shanghai China. I was devastated they had no BSF class as I had done all lessons but Genesis. I write HQ to get a class started there. Rosemary Jensen approved and sent Anna Kingsbury and Myrna Anderson to help get started. We had over 100 expat ladies join our class in Shanghai, China. Many years later, I relocated to Hilton Head Island, SC. My pastor asked where BSF was on the island. There was no BSF. The first long distance satellite class was started 4 years ago in the Island with the help of Leslie Hummel. I’m am currently serving as Class Administrator and loving the new PPKD Lesson this year. God is so good. I have introduced many new people to BSF over the 34 years I’ve been involved. It was one of the Best gifts God ever gave me to draw me closer and closer to God. Can you tell I LOVE BSF?
BSF came into my life when my hunger for in depth study of Scripture had matured. The combination of focused study and the encouragement of fellowship with other men believers has been unparalleled in spiritual enrichment and growth for me. God bless BSF.
How beautiful to see what God does with our obedience in and through the power of His Holy Spirit! Thank you for sharing Ana!
Such a powerful Anointed Testimony. Praise God.
I was in a cult (1971-1979) and came out and fell radically in love with Jesus. I went to Bible college in TX in 1985, and in 1990 began a ministry to those touched by cults, culminating in two halfway houses in Garland TX. Because of my location and experience, I had the opportunity to assist with negotiations outside a ranch in Waco TX that had a 51-day siege with the ATF and FBI in 1993. When 84 people died on April 19,1993, I was confused and could not continue with ministry. I still loved God, but I just could not go on…..and so I turned away. When I returned to the Lord in 2004 in KS, through an amazing outpouring of His grace, I found a church but I needed a place for more in-depth Bible study. A friend invited me to BSF, and I have been coming since March 2005. I grew stronger and I overcame my bitterness. In 2013, a grant/ opportunity came to begin a program for single moms who have experienced domestic abuse. We have now graduated 1100 women, I will be 70 next year, and I am retiring at the end of this year and leaving it in the hands of a woman who is singularly gifted for the position. I am not retiring….an opportunity has opened to minister to those who have left cults again. And I didn’t see that coming, not after 1993 and my 11-year temper tantrum. BSF has been a huge part of helping me walk into restoration and new beginnings in God and His will. It is never too late, God has never given up on us. I am very grateful to Him, to my church who has supported me and the ministry so wonderfully, and to BSF.
Connie – so blessed by your sharing. Praying for this new opportunity. What an amazing testimony
What a beautiful story. Thanks to God for His goodness and faithful children.